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The development of a new risk model: The Threat Matrix
Author(s) -
Jones Emma,
Harkins Leigh,
Beech Anthony R.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
legal and criminological psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.65
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 2044-8333
pISSN - 1355-3259
DOI - 10.1111/lcrp.12019
Subject(s) - risk assessment , context (archaeology) , psychology , sex offender , identification (biology) , risk analysis (engineering) , computer security , poison control , sex offense , human factors and ergonomics , applied psychology , computer science , criminology , medicine , medical emergency , sexual abuse , paleontology , botany , biology
The risk assessment of sex offenders has evolved rapidly over a 20‐year period. However, there is still disparity between empirically evaluated approaches and the needs within the applied context. This article discusses the division between the current needs in the applied setting of sex offender risk assessment, and the existing approaches to risk assessment. It highlights key needs that ought to be responded to, to continue the evolution of sex offender risk assessment (i.e., increased automation of processes, additional emphasis on early identification and prevention, and the targeting of resources towards risk). A new risk assessment model termed the Threat Matrix is introduced as a proposed response to these needs. The new model uses information derived from police systems to make proactive assessments of those who may pose a risk of sexual violence, but who have not been convicted of sexual offences. The practical and ethical implications of implementing and testing this model are discussed.