What is the best predictor of future violence in a client?

The best predictor of future violence in a client is previous violent behavior. This is rooted in the understanding that past behavior often serves as a reliable indicator of future actions. When assessing the risk of violence, a history of previous violent acts signifies a pattern that is likely to recur. This historical context offers valuable insights into the individual's behavioral tendencies and potential for future aggression.

In clinical settings, recognizing previous violent behavior prompts healthcare professionals to approach the situation with appropriate caution and to implement preventative interventions. While current mental health status, substance abuse history, and recent crisis events can contribute to an individual's risk for violence, they are not as strong indicators on their own as a documented pattern of previous violence. These factors may influence behavior but do not consistently predict future actions without the context of prior violence.