Respectful Treatment and Risk Reduction for High Psychopathy Individuals with Mark Olver

RESOLVing Violence

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to violence, psychopathy, and correctional treatment. Our conversation includes detailed discussions on the treatment of individuals with high psychopathy scores, historical treatment methods, and the challenges faced by practitioners working with violent or at-risk populations. Listener discretion is advised, as these topics can be triggering or distressing for some individuals.

This week’s episode of Resolving Violence, we are joined by Dr. Mark Olver, a professor and registered doctoral psychologist at the University of Saskatchewan. The discussion delves into the pivotal role of professionals working with violent or at-risk populations, emphasizing the importance of clinicians maintaining a professional yet empathetic stance. Dr. Olver underscores essential practices effective with correctional populations that include being firm but fair, demonstrating warmth and genuineness, and fostering a therapeutic alliance. He advises practitioners to stay aware of their emotional boundaries, manage countertransference, and uphold realistic expectations for progress.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on individuals with high psychopathy scores and the importance of respecting their dignity while helping them achieve positive changes. Dr. Olver elaborates on the stigmatizing nature of the term "psychopath" and advocates for alternative, less pejorative terminology such as "people with high psychopathy" or "correctional clients." He also discusses the history and efficacy of various therapeutic approaches, highlighting the Clearwater program that showed promising results for high-intensity sexual violence reduction among participants, especially those who completed the program compared to non-completers.

The episode concludes with practical advice for service providers working with populations at risk of violence, reinforcing the need for tailored, individualized services. Dr. Olver discusses the foundational principles of effective correctional programs, developed in Canada, and implemented globally, known as risk, need, and responsivity (RNR). These principles emphasize tailoring treatment dosages to risk levels, prioritizing individual needs contributing to criminal behavior, and adjusting services based on client characteristics. The episode accentuates the transformation possibility in individuals with psychopathy through appropriate, empathetic, and dignified treatment approaches, contributing to reduced recidivism and safer communities.

About Our Guest:
Dr. Mark Olver is a respected professor and registered doctoral psychologist at the University of Saskatchewan, known for his extensive research in the fields of risk assessment, correctional treatment, and psychopathy. His academic work predominantly focuses on justice-involved youth, variations in human sexuality, and the evaluation of therapeutic change, making significant contributions to the understanding and management of violent and at-risk populations. Olver's commitment to improving correctional programs worldwide is demonstrated through his involvement in developing and promoting the Risk, Need, and Responsivity (RNR) principles, which have been instrumental in reducing reoffending rates globally. His expertise is frequently sought after in addressing complex issues related to recidivism, psychopathy, and therapeutic outcomes, making him a leading figure in the ongoing efforts to resolve violence and enhance public safety.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/