Overview of Partner Violence Risk Assessment and the Potential Role of Female Victim Risk Appraisals

• NCJ Number: 235101
• Journal: Aggression and Violent Behavior Volume: 16 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2011 Pages: 214-226
• Author(s): Erica Bowen
• Date Published: June 2011
• Length: 13 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Literature Review; Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: Netherlands
• Note: Certain components of this paper were presented as an oral presentation at the British Psychological Society, Division of Forensic Psychology Conference, University of Kent, June 23rd, 2010.

Annotation

This paper reviews the existing literature regarding the practice of risk assessment for intimate partner violence.

Abstract

The requirement for accurate appraisals of risk for intimate partner violence has increased with the implementation of pro-arrest policies in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. During the last 10 years, there has been some progress made in terms of the development of actuarial risk assessment instruments, thus providing alternatives to the previously available structured professional judgment approach. In light of these developments, practitioners need information regarding the reliability and validity of such approaches. In addition, research highlights the potential validity of victim appraisals of risk. The aim of this paper, therefore, is to review the existing literature regarding the practice of risk assessment in this field, with emphasis placed on the validity of currently available risk assessment tools, as well as the predictive validity of victim's own appraisal of this risk. Directions for future research are examined along with the implications of the current evidence base for risk assessment practice. (Published Abstract)