Objective

The objective of forensic psychological assessment is to facilitate decision-making of the court and statutory boards by providing professional opinion regarding the psychological conditions, motives of criminal behaviours, rehabilitation needs, re-offending risks, and progress of rehabilitation of persons in custody (PIC).

Introduction

1. Psychological Reports for the Court

Upon the request of the court, clinical psychologists conduct psychological assessments on PIC and compile psychological reports. These assessments are mainly conducted after they are convicted and before sentence. Personal information of PIC, such as their background, developmental history, psychiatric history, interpersonal relationship, employment history, is collected through clinical interviews and psychological assessment tools are used. Based on theories in psychology, these assessment tools are formulated with rigorous scientific verifications, backed by statistical analyses, and recognised internationally. Equipped with such tools, clinical psychologists accurately assess such aspects as the psychological state, personality, cognitive abilities and re-offending risks of PIC with a view to reaching an in-depth understanding of their psychological qualities and motives of their offending behaviours. Clinical psychologists may also contact the families of PIC where necessary to learn more about their daily functioning and behaviours in the community.

In addition to providing information such as the psychological state and re-offending risks of PIC, psychological assessments for the court may also reveal the extent to which PIC require psychological treatment for the consideration of the court to facilitate sentencing. Furthermore, through the process of psychological assessment, PIC could reflect on themselves, bolster their self-understanding and cultivate positive thinking, so as to prepare them for future psychological treatment or other rehabilitation plans.

2. Psychological Reports for Statutory Boards

Upon the requests of various statutory boards, clinical psychologists conduct regular psychological assessments on PIC and compile their psychological reports. These statutory boards include Long-term Prison Sentences Review Board, Post-Release Supervision Board, and Release under Supervision Board. Professional opinions concerning PIC's psychological state, progress of rehabilitation or treatment, re-offending risks and other relevant aspects are offered to the Board. Clinical psychologists also advise on the need for PIC to receive psychological follow-up during the supervision period in the community following their release. Opinions on the management of re-offending risks are also provided, such as advising on the special conditions in the supervision of sex offenders. Where necessary, clinical psychologists will provide counselling to PIC under supervision to facilitate their re-integration, manage their re-offending risks and assist them in turning over a new leaf.