Be Aware: Biocueing as an Addition to Aggression Regulation Therapy in Forensic Psychiatric Outpatients

The main aim of the studies in this dissertation was to assess the feasibility and effects of a wearable biocueing intervention as an addition to aggression regulation therapy (ART) in forensic psychiatric outpatients. In sum, this dissertation reveals a positive attitude towards biocueing as an additive intervention in forensic psychiatry. Results demonstrated adequate usability, however, further development and refinement remain necessary. Furthermore, although some indications of positive changes associated with the use of the Sense-IT app were found, no firm conclusion regarding the effects can be drawn to date. Effectivity should therefore be further investigated in future research. More specifically, and in line with the shift toward developing more personalized treatment interventions, research should aim to identify which patients are actually supported by (which components of) a biocueing intervention, and, if applicable, when and how behavioral support could be provided in the most efficacious way. Since development and use of personalized treatment interventions are only expected to grow in the coming years, improving usability, tailoring the intervention to individual needs, enhancing integration in therapy and increasing affinity with the intervention, in continuous co-creating efforts with patients and therapists, are highly recommended for future-proof forensic care.