A systematic mixed studies review and framework synthesis of mental health professionals’ experiences of violence risk assessment and management in forensic mental health settings

Violence risk assessment and management is at the forefront of the work of mental health professionals in forensic mental health settings. Staff working in these settings are presented with many challenges. This review explores how mental health professionals working in forensic mental health settings experience the violence risk assessment and management process. A systematic mixed studies review utilizing PRISMA guidelines was conducted. Sixteen studies were identified for inclusion. Data from qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies were analyzed together using a data-based convergent synthesis design. Using a best-fit framework synthesis approach, existing data was built upon to allow for a comprehensive qualitative overview of mental health professionals’ experiences. The themes which emerged were: The Patient as a Person; The Caring Relationship; Multidisciplinary Working; and Reliance on Clinical Intuition. Results, clinical implications, and future research directions are discussed.