SECTION A: ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN THIS SECTION (a) Define the term "forensic assessment". (1 mark) (b) Explain any 5 factors normally considered during forensic assessment o sexual offenders. (5 marks) (c) Briefly describe the key tenets of rational choice theory and show its relevance in the rehabilitation process (10 marks) (d) Discuss any 2 methods used in offender rehabilitation within our criminal justice system today (4 marks) (e) Explain the challenges facing offender rehabilitation in Kenya today. (f) Describe 2 merits and 2 demerits of the rehabilitation philosophy of responding to offending. (5 marks) (5 marks)

(a) Forensic assessment refers to the process of evaluating individuals involved in legal cases to provide expert testimony or inform decision-making. This assessment often involves psychological, psychiatric, or other specialized evaluations to determine competency, risk levels, or other relevant factors.<br /><br />(b) Five factors normally considered during forensic assessment of sexual offenders include:<br />1. **Risk Assessment**: Evaluating the likelihood of reoffending.<br />2. **Psychological Evaluation**: Assessing mental health and any underlying issues.<br />3. **Behavioral Analysis**: Understanding patterns and triggers for offending behavior.<br />4. **Criminal History**: Reviewing past offenses and their nature.<br />5. **Victim Impact**: Considering the effects of the crimes on victims.<br /><br />(c) Rational choice theory posits that individuals make decisions based on a rational calculation of costs and benefits. In rehabilitation, this theory is relevant as it emphasizes the importance of providing offenders with the tools and opportunities to weigh the long-term benefits of rehabilitation against the short-term gratification of criminal behavior. Effective rehabilitation programs can help offenders make informed choices that lead to positive life changes.<br /><br />(d) Two methods used in offender rehabilitation within our criminal justice system today are:<br />1. **Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)**: Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.<br />2. **Reintegration Programs**: Aim to help offenders reintegrate into society through education, job training, and support services.<br /><br />(e) Challenges facing offender rehabilitation in Kenya today include:<br />1. **Limited Resources**: Insufficient funding and resources for rehabilitation programs.<br />2. **Stigmatization**: Offenders face societal stigma, making it difficult for them to reintegrate.<br />3. **Inconsistent Implementation**: Variability in the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs due to inconsistent implementation.<br /><br />(f) Merits and demerits of the rehabilitation philosophy in responding to offending:<br />**Merits:**<br />1. **Focus on Reintegration**: Helps offenders become productive members of society.<br />2. **Reduction in Recidivism**: Effective rehabilitation can lower the rate of repeat offenses.<br /><br />**Demerits:**<br />1. **Resource Intensive**: Requires significant investment in terms of time, money, and human resources.<br />2. **Variable Outcomes**: Success rates can vary, and not all offenders respond positively to rehabilitation efforts.