Exploring gender-related issues in mobile crisis programs through a feminist theoretical framework

grantor: University of TorontoThe current investigation analyzed gender differences among a cohort of clients who accessed the services provided by two Ontario mobile crisis programs and was guided by a feminist theoretical framework. Gender differences were examined in terms of client characteristics, mental health functioning, process of care, and outcome of care. The study was part of a one-year evaluation that took place at Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre (SWCHSC) and reports on data collected between March 15, 1999 and August 31, 1999. Data was collected retrospectively through a chart review of clinical record forms and progress notes completed by mobile crisis workers during their initial visit with clients. The results of the study found that women and men differed on a number of important factors. Specifically, women were older, were more likely to be married, and were less likely to be referred to the mobile crisis programs by a family member than their male peers. In addition, women were more likely to report having been diagnosed with an affective disorder while men were more likely to report having been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Other significant gender differences showed that women were more likely than men to report suicide intentionality and were less likely to have had contact with a psychiatrist and to be referred to case management services. Finally, even after controlling for the effects of other variables, affective disorders were shown to be more common in female than male clients by a factor about two. The implications of these findings, particularly as they relate to the sensitivity of mobile crisis programs to gender issues and women's mental health needs, are discussed and recommendations for policy and practice are provided. Limitations and strengths of the study and directions for future research are also presented.M.Sc