ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to assist professionals in engaging more effectively with sex offenders by more accurately assessing risk and contributing more effectively to monitoring and modifying risk factors. It explores the use of the mental-status screening (MSS) approach and the development of disclosure-enhancing techniques to assist the offender in improving engagement as well as self-control. Using techniques such as the personal history interview (PHI) and MSS, as well as a thorough exploration of sexual interests and behaviour, can assist in gaining critical information. A primary focus of the interview must be to more comprehensively understand the motivations and contextual factors surrounding the index offence. A semi-structured interview addressing key background issues, including family history, important life events and past involvement with the authorities, should be undertaken, employing a broad scope in questioning. When gathering information, as an interviewer or in the initial stages of therapeutic engagement, different styles of interaction have historically been employed.
