Psychological Formulations (AO1)

Question 1

What are the three functions of psychological formulations?

Answer 1

1. To assess what influenced an offender’s behaviour
2. To prevent recidivism and assess the risk of reoffense
3. To establish suitable treatment for the offender

Question 2

What are the three phases of psychological formulations?

Answer 2

1. Offense analysis - identifying reasons for the offense, e.g. biological, social, etc.
2. Understanding the function of offending - e.g. to satisfy a need such as an addiction or for exercising power (e.g. rapists)
3. Application to treatment - establish intervention based on conclusions drawn, e.g. CBT or bio treatments