Do individuals with mental illness engage in more violence than others?

The stigma of mental illness that remains prevalent in our society has direct ties to the idea that mental illness and violence are interrelated. Regardless of data, the public perception of mental illness can and does include a preconceived notion of violent tendencies. Research has examined why these perceptions exist and whether they are valid. Research has evaluated various groups from both the general public and groups of individuals suffering from various levels of mental illness. Examinations in the public perception included location, age, economic status, sex, and race. Examinations in the mental health field evaluated different types of mental illness as well as various genders, ages, and races. The final results were conclusive and helped to explain the abovementioned concerns.