The available research shows a weak relationship between mental illness and violence or criminality. Personal-distress variables (i.e., anxiety, self-esteem, depression) are weak predictors of criminal behavior. Criminogenic variables such as antisocial behavior and personality traits are strong predictors of risk, even in offenders with a mental disorder. The goal of mental health treatment is to address mental disorder, while that of correctional treatment is to reduce recidivism; these goals do not always operate in tandem. Correctional programs should be evaluated in terms of psychiatric rating scales, measures of independent behavioral functioning, and use of facility mental health services, in addition to their impact on recidivism. 10 notes