Violence Risk Management: From Research to Effective Practice

Managing those thought to be at risk for violence is a key role in effective forensic practice. Three decades of research have provided a strong foundation upon which effective practice may be built. However, a primary challenge remains – how can we translate our research findings into information that is applicable to the individual that we have to manage? Qualitatively different risk processes may produce similar episodes of violent behaviour across different individuals, or indeed, across the same individual on different occasions.  It is argued that effective practice relies on deriving a clear understanding of the web of risk processes that operate within an individual. Further, it is argued that to make progress towards effective practice the field must move from a focus on risk factors towards the elaboration of a taxonomy of risk processes. Risk management interventions can be targeted at key risk processes. Case illustrations are provided.