Assessing and managing risk of violence in the mentally disordered

Abstract

This review paper explored the concepts of risk assessment and management in relation to 'serious' violence by individuals with mental disorder. The paper highlighted the political context in which concern over serious violence by those with mental disorder is increasing. Government guidance on risk assessment was considered and identified as having an actuarial bias. Correlational studies, which provide actuarial indicators of risk, were explored and a picture was developed that demonstrated the difficulty of determining risk of violence to others simply on the basis of psychiatric symptomatology. The literature led to a conclusion that risk assessment for violence is an inexact science, and that actuarial indicators need to be supported by structured thorough clinical investigation. Legal concerns around the assessment and management of risk were also explored. The Health and Safety Executive model for risk management was explored in relation to the findings of the risk-assessment literature and the recommendations of reports into serious violent incidents. The model was shown to have potential utility in providing a legally sound framework for the assessment and management of risk of violence in mental disorder.