Correctional Psychology: Contemplating the Future

Abstract

This chapter reflects on some more forward-facing issues and challenges for psychology in correctional settings. Risk assessment nonetheless poses substantial ethical challenges that can bring psychologists into conflict with their employers. The development of risk assessment tools has, over the past 20 years, formed a large part of correctional psychology research, and an even larger part of everyday practice. The second major area of correctional practice in which psychological theory, principles, and evidence have proven influential is offender treatment or rehabilitation. Since recidivism is an insensitive, delayed, and indirect measure at best, there is an obvious need to develop bette..