Social Workers' Perceptions of the Stigmatization Process for Individuals with Mental Health Needs within the Criminal Justice System in Türkiye: An Intersectional Analysis.

This article examines social workers' perceptions of the stigmatization process experienced by individuals with mental health needs involved in the criminal justice system in Türkiye, using an intersectional framework. The study identifies three forms of stigma—self, public, and structural—that affect these individuals, with stigma intensifying after criminal justice involvement and varying according to intersecting social categories such as gender, sexual orientation, class, ethnicity, and type of crime. Women, LGBTQI+ individuals, immigrants, and those convicted of sexual offenses face distinct and heightened stigmatization, which impedes access to services and social reintegration. The research highlights systemic barriers within Türkiye's criminal justice and health institutions, emphasizing the need for increased, specialized mental health services and targeted anti-stigma interventions informed by intersectional awareness. Future research is recommended to include longitudinal and quantitative studies and to incorporate the perspectives of affected individuals to better tailor support services.