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Editorial

Document Cited in Related
Vincent
Published date01 September 2002
Date01 September 2002
DOI10.1177/026455050204900301
Subject MatterArticles
Editorial 9458 EDITORIAL
Few people could argue that developing a strong evidence base and then implementing the
lessons that arise from it is an obvious strategy for effective criminal justice policy and
practice. Critics in this Journal and beyond have nevertheless sought to add a note of caution
to this approach, reminding us that neither the direction of research, nor the implementation
of ‘effective practice’ are dispassionate and value-neutral. One frequently made
point is that a more consistent and standardised approach may not necessarily lead to
equitable practice. Several articles in this edition echo this theme, providing a useful
reminder that to be both effective and ethical, practice must strive continuously to respond
to the needs of diverse populations.
Tackling Racist Offending: A Generalist or Targeted Approach? traces the development
of policy and practice responses to racism and racist offenders, and challenges the recent
Accreditation Panel decision to recommend the use of generalised cognitive behavioural
programmes for this group. It incorporates a useful analysis of the wider socio-political
context – including discussion of important inquiries such as the Macpherson and
Cantle Reports – and the impact that it may have had on the deliberations of the
NPD and Accreditation Panel.
The authors of The Transtheoretical Model and Quality of Life Promotion also argue that
the specific characteristics of offenders should not be forgotten in the drive towards
standardised programmes. They stress the importance to effective rehabilitation of the
“therapeutic alliance” and a process of change which is explicitly shown to be to the
offender’s own advantage. Programmes should, they state, be matched to participant needs,
not the reverse. This point is supported by the findings of the article on work with
Transgendered and Transsexual People As...

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