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. 2018 Oct 29;26(2):312-328.
doi: 10.1080/13218719.2018.1506721. eCollection 2019.

Dynamic Risk Factors, Protective Factors and Value-Laden Practices

Roxanne Heffernan  1 , Tony Ward  1
Affiliations

Dynamic Risk Factors, Protective Factors and Value-Laden Practices

Roxanne Heffernan et al. Psychiatr Psychol Law. .

Abstract

Dynamic risk (and to a lesser extent protective) factors are the foundation of correctional practice; the assumption that they exist, can be measured and are able to change is at the heart of what forensic practitioners do. However, there has recently been a surge in interest and debate around what these constructs are and how they relate to offending. In progressing this debate, we shift the focus from risky characteristics, behaviours and contexts (e.g. antisocial attitudes, associates, drug abuse), to the practices (i.e. goal-directed actions) to which these descriptions refer. Embedded within practices are values (i.e. priorities, motivators, norms), and underpinning them human capacities. Identification of these capacities and relevant contexts (i.e. norms, opportunities) can inform rehabilitation, which strengthens them to support healthier and less harmful functioning. We offer examples of risk and protective factors for sexual offending, although the ideas are not limited to this type of behaviour.

Keywords: capacities; dynamic risk factors; norms; protective factors; sexual offending; social practices; values.

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Conflict of interest statement

Roxanne Heffernan has declared no conflicts of interest Tony Ward has declared no conflicts of interest

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
The role of values in professional judgements concerning risk.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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