What demographic has seen the largest growth within the forensic population in Canada over the past decade?

The demographic that has seen the largest growth within the forensic population in Canada over the past decade is women. This trend highlights a significant shift in the patterns of crime and mental health issues among women, leading to a greater recognition of their needs within the forensic system. Factors contributing to this increase may include heightened awareness and understanding of women's mental health issues, as well as changes in societal attitudes towards female offenders. The rise can also be tied to the growing acknowledgment of gender-based violence and its impact on women's criminal behavior.

While men still comprise a majority of the forensic population, the more significant growth in women suggests that there is an evolving understanding of how criminal behavior manifests differently in women. The options involving children and older adults do not reflect the same level of increase seen with women in the forensic system, and men, although numerous, have not experienced the same rapid growth in comparison.