Community Dynamic Risk Management of Persons Who Have Sexually Offended

This chapter focuses on the community dynamic risk management of individuals convicted of sexual offenses. It surveys public perceptions of sexual violence, because how citizens feel about their safety often drives political and legislative agendas. The chapter critically reviews the most common outcomes of those legislative agendas—measures instituted with the goal of containing the risk posed by persons who have sexually offended, including registries, tracking technologies, and other restrictions. It describes the comprehensive and evidence‐based dynamic processes available to clinical and case management personnel in the community, with a focus on the assessment of risk and need, as well as on approaches that emphasize professionals’ teamwork and collaboration with each other and with clients. The chapter suggests that the public's beliefs about sexual violence risk are often considered when politicians and policy makers ponder legislative options for risk management.