All people with mental illnesses are violent and unpredictable.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not sure

Answer: (B)

Believing that all people with mental illnesses are violent and unpredictable is a harmful stereotype that oversimplifies behavior. In reality, having a mental illness by itself does not predict violence; the vast majority are not dangerous. When violence does occur, it is more closely linked to factors such as substance use, prior violence, acute symptoms, or other co-occurring conditions rather than the diagnosis alone. With effective treatment, support, and early intervention, risk can be reduced, and people with mental illness are more often victims of violence than perpetrators. Because the statement makes an absolute generalization, it isn’t accurate.