Pitfalls and dangers

Question 1

Name the issues of deception.

Answer 1

1. social desirability
2. malingering
3. suggestibility
4. effects of anxiety (about outcome)
5. willingness to talk
6. limited introspective abilities

Question 2

Name the potential errors in the planning of the risk assessment process.

Answer 2

1. actuarial vs structured professional judgement.
2. assessment-related issues: impartiality, adversarial allegiance, access to information, clinical experience, knowledge of legal procedures, commitment to professionalism.

Question 3

Name the potentials errors in conducting risk assessment.

Answer 3

1. the assessor: limited knowledge, bias, improper training, checklist vs holistic perception of patient.
2. evaluating the risks: behaviour, external events, thoughts & perception and physical factors.
3. deciding on preventive action: priorities of treatment, informing staff, resources available, preventive hierarchy.

Question 4

What are the main points of the meta-analysis on errors in the risk assessment process.

Answer 4

1. mixed views on utility of risk management tools {prof}
2. mixed use of risk assessment tools
3. mixed adherence to risk principles following use of tool.
4. limited adherence to need principle following use of tool.
5. inconsistent evidence on reducing violence and offending.
6. disconnecting theory of risk assessment from real-world practice.

Question 5

How can you enhance risk management practices?

Answer 5

1. risk management training
2. structured risk management guidelines.
3. sound implementation.