A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis on the Effectiveness of Forensic Risk Assessment Tools in Predicting Recidivism of Stalking

This review examined the effectiveness of risk assessment tools in predicting stalking recidivism in offender populations. A systematic literature search was conducted in April 2024 and updated in April 2025. Cohort studies investigating the predictive validity of forensic risk tools for stalking recidivism were included. A narrative synthesis framework was used. Study quality was assessed using an adapted Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for cohort studies. Data from eight studies was quantitatively synthesized. Overall, results were mixed regarding the predictive validity of risk tools. Results were promising regarding the predictive validity of stalking-sepcific risk tools. Clinical and research implications are discussed.