The use of indirect psychological intervention in forensic services

Abstract

There is a growing evidence base for the use of indirect psychological interventions within inpatient services. Indirect psychological interventions include the use of clinical supervision, formulation, case discussion and reflective practice. All of these offer opportunities for reflection and discussion on clinical practices within inpatient services. Chapter 1 presents a systematic review and narrative synthesis exploring the use of indirect psychological interventions within forensic inpatient services. Findings from nine included studies found that clinical supervision and reflective practice interventions are currently being offered within some forensic services with positive staff outcomes. However, methodological limitations impacted the strengths of the findings, and a lack of service user outcomes is identified. Recommendations for future research included the need for standardisation in outcome measurement reporting for indirect psychological interventions in order for more complete conclusions to be drawn. Chapter 2 presents a quantitative study exploring the use of psychological formulation in forensic services. The use of indirect psychological interventions within forensic services is currently under researched. The use of the Comprehend, Cope and Connect formulation within acute mental health services has suggested positive outcomes for both staff and service users. The study aimed to investigate whether formulation impacts staff attitudes and levels of compassion in comparison to a control group, whether these effects are maintained, and if staff attitudes and level of compassion are associated with personality disorder presentations. This study employed a mixed model design with a between-subjects factor of condition (formulation vs control) and a within-subjects factor of time. The results of this study suggested some perceived benefits from the use of the CCC formulation in clinical practice within forensic services. With those in the formulation condition reporting anticipated usefulness of the model within their practice. Further research is needed with a larger sample size to better understand any potential benefits and uses of the CCC model within forensic services.

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ORCID for Alison Bennetts: orcid.org/0000-0003-2461-7868

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