Evaluation of the UK dangerous and severe personality disorder (DSPD) program

Methods A Delphi process has been used to agree descriptions of key aspects of the treatment program, and data collected on patient characteristics. The primary outcome is to measure change in patients/prisoners' risk, clinical, behavioral and social profiles, and test these for their association with treatment experiences and baseline predictors. In addition, specific measures of outcome – the Violence Risk Scale (VRS); measures of cognitive and emotional functioning; perceived coercion and measures of satisfaction will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the programs. In depth interviews are also being developed to gain insights into the expectation and experience of those detained within these units.