Effectiveness of psychological treatments for violent offenders in custodial, community and forensic mental health settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Overview
This 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis examined psychological treatments for violent offenders across custodial, community, and forensic mental health settings. Analyzing 27 studies from 1993-2017, researchers found psychological treatments effective in reducing violent and general reoffending by approximately 10-11%. High-intensity, multi-component treatments including relapse prevention, role playing, and homework showed greatest impact. The review supports psychological interventions for violent offenders but notes limited high-quality studies in community and forensic settings.
Key insights
Key Insights:
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Psychological treatments reduce violent reoffending by approximately 10%
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High-intensity treatments (250+ hours) show greater effectiveness
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Multi-component approaches work better than single-target interventions
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Relapse prevention and role playing are crucial treatment components
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Group-based interventions in therapeutic communities are most effective
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Higher-risk offenders benefit more from psychological treatment programs
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Treatment also reduces general reoffending by approximately 11%
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More research needed in community and forensic mental health settings
Did this resource draw on transformative evidence?
No, this document was not based on experiential expertise. It was based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 independent research studies conducted between 1993-2017. The findings came from statistical analysis of empirical research data, not from practitioners' personal experiences or clinical observations.
No, this document was not based on practice wisdom. It was based on empirical research evidence through systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 studies. The findings derive from statistical analysis of controlled research studies, not from practitioners' accumulated clinical experience, insights, or informal knowledge gained through practice.
Yes, this document was entirely based on research and evaluation insights. It conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 independent research studies that evaluated psychological treatments for violent offenders. The findings derive from rigorous statistical analysis of empirical research data and controlled evaluations.
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Categories
Resource type
Systematic Review