| Abstract: This research examines the characteristics and intervention processes involving individuals subject to curative security measures under Article 97 of the Costa Rican Penal Code. These individuals are placed under judicial supervision because mental health conditions affected their capacity to understand or control their actions when committing a criminal offense. As a result, they are situated at the intersection of the criminal justice system, mental health services, and social care institutions.
The study responds to the limited empirical knowledge available regarding their sociodemographic, criminological, legal, and psychosocial characteristics, as well as the institutional mechanisms responsible for their supervision and support. This lack of information restricts the development of evidence-based public policies and intervention strategies.
The research adopts a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory approach. Data will be collected through documentary analysis of judicial and institutional records, complemented by semi-structured interviews with professionals and institutional actors involved in the care and monitoring of this population. The information will be analyzed through thematic categories to understand life trajectories, mental health conditions, offense patterns, and institutional intervention processes.
Expected outcomes include a comprehensive characterization of this population, the identification of strengths and challenges in interinstitutional coordination, and recommendations for improving socioeducational intervention practices. In addition, the findings will support the strengthening of Course 05371, Socioeducational Intervention with Offenders, at UNED by providing empirically grounded and nationally contextualized teaching resources. |