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Ideas

Reith Lectures #4: Can we change violent minds?

Jan 24, 2025
Gwen Adshead, a forensic psychiatrist with the NHS and author of "The Devil You Know," delves into the complexities of violent offense and rehabilitation. She argues for shifting from punitive justice to therapeutic interventions, revealing stories like Mrs. Jenkins that highlight the potential for change. Insights into Norway's contrast with Britain's justice system showcase effective approaches to rehabilitation. The discussion also examines toxic masculinity in preventing violence and emphasizes the importance of healing for both survivors and offenders.
54:08

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Quick takeaways

  • Understanding the motivations behind violent behavior is essential, as isolation and punitive measures often fail to rehabilitate offenders effectively.
  • Norway's rehabilitation-focused approach to violent offenders demonstrates that therapeutic interventions can lead to lower recidivism and promote societal healing.

Deep dives

The Ineffectiveness of Isolation and Shame

Isolating and shaming violent offenders does not lead to effective rehabilitation. The desire to inflict harm on perpetrators mirrors the violent thoughts of the offenders themselves, indicating that punitive measures often fail to address the root causes of their behavior. The podcast highlights the insights of forensic psychiatrist Gwen Adsett, who emphasizes understanding what drives violent behavior rather than solely condemning it. The perspective is that most individuals involved in violence would welcome a chance at reform and healing, given support and compassion, which can facilitate change.

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