RT Article T1 The classification of offending and crime related problems: a functional perspective JF Psychology, crime & law VO 25 IS 6 SP 542 OP 560 A1 Ward, Tony A1 Carter, Ethan LA English YR 2019 UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1736557009 AB In this paper we argue that it is time to adopt a broader classification strategy in forensic and correctional contexts based on the goals associated with offending behaviour. First, we briefly discuss the various roles of classification in science and what constitutes a good classification system. Second, we critically examine current systems of classifying crime and individuals who commit it, concentrating on the use of offense types, levels of risk, and dynamic risk factors. Third, we propose that a forensic/correctional classification system based on functional categories or kinds of behaviour is more likely to result in meaningful descriptive categories, better explanations, and ultimately more effective treatment than our current systems do. We then outline the Functional Offending Behaviour Classification Framework drawing together ideas from evolutionary biology, cognitive neuroscience, psychopathology, disability research, and ethology. Finally, we illustrate the advantages of our functional classification framework in comparison to traditional ways of classifying crime and offending behaviour. K1 Correctional classification K1 Dynamic risk factors K1 Functional kinds K1 Non-offending problems K1 Offending categories DO 10.1080/1068316X.2018.1557182