In violence risk assessment, how are static risk factors best described?

• A. Historical factors that can change over time.
• B. Historical factors that do not change over time.
• C. Current mood fluctuations.
• D. After-treatment risk is irrelevant.

Answer: (B)

Static risk factors are fixed elements from a person’s history that do not change over time. In violence risk assessment, these are historical factors that stay constant regardless of treatment or current circumstances. They help establish a baseline level of risk because they reflect patterns from the past, such as a history of violence, prior offenses, and the age at which offending began. Because they’re not modifiable through intervention, they provide important prognostic information about long-term risk.

In contrast, factors that swing with time—like mood, stress, or substance use—are dynamic and are the main targets of risk-reduction efforts, since these can change with treatment or support. The idea that historical factors can change over time describes dynamic factors, not static. Likewise, current mood fluctuations point to dynamic factors, not static. And post-treatment risk is still a consideration; risk can persist after treatment and remains relevant for monitoring and ongoing safeguards.