NCJ Number
224165
Journal
Aggression and Violent Behavior: A Review Journal Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: August-September 2008 Pages: 276-284
Date Published
August 2008
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews cognitive factors relevant to treatment readiness and selected interventions for violent offenders.
Abstract
This article concludes that cognitive factors are critical in the assessment of readiness in violent offenders and therapeutic efforts to enhance engagement. It is noted that advances in offender rehabilitation theory have led to the development of a clear framework of the factors that require consideration for an offender to be ready for therapy and thus gain maximum benefits. The work seeks to examine, in greater detail, the role of cognition in readiness for rehabilitation concerning violent offenders, and assess how cognitive processes and distortions common in violent offenders may affect and hamper rehabilitation readiness. Certain primary and secondary cognitive distortions that aid offending are identified, such as self-centered attitudes and beliefs; blaming others; minimizing/mislabeling; and assuming the worst, hostility. Additionally, certain cognitive factors that impair an ability to engage in treatment are also discussed. Methods and techniques for remediation of cognitive factors that diminish readiness, including motivational interviewing and dealing with resistance, were also discussed. It is noted in conclusion that although this review has explored the cognitive factors of rehabilitation readiness, the broader picture of readiness should not be forgotten, as other factors may influence the overall readiness of a violent offender who is ready for rehabilitation. Table, references