Related Experiment Videos
Violent offender research and implications for the criminal justice system
1Research Department, Mental Health Centre, Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada. riceme@fhs.csu.mcmaster.ca
The American Psychologist
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Psychopathic offenders pose a high risk of future violence, which can be predicted. However, some violence reduction treatments may inadvertently increase offender dangerousness, impacting criminal justice decisions.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Criminology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Certain offenders exhibit a high propensity for reoffending.
- Psychopathy is strongly associated with violent behavior.
- Predicting future violence is a critical concern in offender management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the predictability of violent recidivism in offenders.
- To evaluate the effectiveness and potential adverse effects of violence reduction treatments.
- To discuss implications for criminal justice policies and practices.
Main Methods:
- Review of research on offender risk assessment.
- Analysis of treatment outcome studies for violent offenders.
- Synthesis of findings related to psychopathy and violence.
Main Results:
- Psychopathic offenders demonstrate a heightened likelihood of future violence.
- Accurate prediction of future violence is achievable for men with prior violent offenses.
- Some interventions designed to reduce dangerousness may paradoxically increase it.
Conclusions:
- Risk assessment and prediction are vital for managing high-risk offenders.
- The impact of treatment interventions requires careful evaluation to avoid unintended consequences.
- Findings necessitate a re-evaluation of criminal justice strategies concerning sentencing, parole, and treatment.