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Ward and Durrant (2021) explain the need for practice theories, to tie together the abstract, explanatory features of criminological theories, and operationalization of interventions. In this paper, the theory/theories of "desistance" (i.e., the cessation of criminal activity) are examined with an eye toward describing the various frameworks that explain and predict desistance from crime, and their implicit models for desistance-promotion. The paper makes three fundamental points: 1) that there are multiple explanations for desistance, ranging from external, stabilizing influences to internal identity shifts (and their interaction); 2) because of this, desistance is more an observable process that is predictable under some conditions, but does not represent an overarching theory for behavior or change. Finally, since theories of desistance are not rehabilitation models per se, the article develops elements of practice frameworks, or steps toward creating interventions, that are suggested by the explanatory features of the different approaches to desistance in practice. • Desistance is difficult to operationalize as a theory • Desistance is a state of being observed, observation of states rather than a theory per se • Desistance theories include external factors and internal factors • Some factors that contribute to desistance could not be advocated as practice guidance • Attempts to develop practice guidance reveal complexity in theory articulation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Female adolescents constitute a very vulnerable and challenging, yet understudied, minority within the criminal justice system. Up to now, problem-oriented risk management approaches, such as the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model, are still the most widely used rehabilitation frameworks. More recently, strength-based rehabilitation frameworks, such as the Good Lives Model (GLM), have received increased attention in guiding treatment of detained female adolescents. In the current paper, we explore the relevance and applicability of the GLM in the particular population of detained female adolescents, based on a critical reflection on the theoretical, empirical and clinical evidence available in the scientific literature. First, we argue that the GLM can help to overcome the RNR model's ethical, etiological and clinical limitations, thereby improving rehabilitation theory and effective practice for detained female adolescents. Second, we believe this model, given its holistic and person-centred approach, can be easily extended to this population, however not without taking into account particular developmental and gender issues. Third, we believe the GLM, as a rehabilitation framework, can easily “wrap around” existing evidence-based treatment programs for detained female adolescents, which, overall, are recommended to include a multidimensional, systemic and gender-responsive component. In addition, we think that the different phases of GLM-informed rehabilitation can be easily applied to this particular population. Finally, the application of the GLM among detained female adolescents entails some important research-related, practice-related and normative challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement of adolescent dating violence has substantial implications for our understanding of prevalence, correlates and outcomes; thus, the selection of a measure for a given research study is an important task. Currently, however, no comprehensive compendium presents adolescent dating violence measures with evidence of reliability and validity, or discusses strengths and limitations of these measures. Such a document would aid researchers in the selection of appropriate measures, and would also identify gaps in the literature, as well as directions for future research. Thus, this two-part comprehensive review presents adolescent dating violence measures that have been the focus of psychometric testing. Part 1 of this review discussed six behavior measures, while Part 2 presents seven measures that assess attitudes toward adolescent dating violence, as well as empirical literature that uses these measures. We conclude our review by discussing the implications of this two-part paper for adolescent dating violence measurement, and directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite extensive research on sexual assault, study of the processes and behaviors central to responding to sexual assault threats is limited. The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical, narrative review of the literature on behavioral response to threat (BRTT) highlighting BRTT as mechanism of self-defense interventions and process of sexual victimization. Empirical findings regarding measurement, styles, effectiveness of different styles of BRTT, and facilitators and barriers of BRTT, are reviewed. Most individuals engage in some type of active behavior when faced with a sexual assault threat; yet, the range of the behaviors elicited can be broad and is not well captured by current measurement approaches. Assertive BRTT is the most effective response style, but few, if any, feminist self-defense intervention studies measure change in this behavior as a result of intervention. Recommendations for clinical practice include developing comprehensive measurement of BRTT and adapting interventions to decrease barriers to assertive BRTTs. Recommendations for future research include undertaking both qualitative and quantitative efforts to better characterize the range, stability, and predictors of all possible BRTT styles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers some of the ways in which intervention approaches for perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) might be enhanced through the explicit consideration of the offense process. It is suggested that those who are experts in perpetrating this type of violence routinely use coercive controlling violence in intimate relationships. This group, for whom violence is instrumental, are not only likely to be at highest risk of offending, but also the most difficult to treat. They are more likely to have long developmental histories of violence, hold entrenched attitudes, and utilize knowledge about the effects of intimidation to avoid detection. It is suggested that specific consideration of what is known about the causes and correlates of IPV in those who follow this approach-explicit pathway can improve the outcomes of current perpetrator behavior change programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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 10years, 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. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]