RP helps the client to recognize the sequence of behaviors that typically lead to aggression, to identify situations that represent a high risk of aggressiveness, and to develop ways to cope with these situations in order to circumvent the aggression. The three stages to changing aggressive behavior include making a commitment and becoming motivated to change, implementing the change, and maintaining the change on a long-term basis. RP differentiates between a lapse -- when a client resorts to aggression on a particular occasion -- and a relapse -- when the client experiences an ongoing reversion to previous levels of aggressive behavior. The client's reaction to a lapse may determine if a full-blown relapse occurs. Relapse prevention strategies include skill training, cognitive reframing, and lifestyle interventions. RP approaches are particularly applicable to a correctional situation because they span the areas of correctional philosophy, policy, and practice. 3 figures and 16 references