MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:31:48 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621805&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F153%3Frss%3D1 This article focuses on the 2nd year’s project that involved a web-based, statewide survey of treatment providers. The purpose of the study was to conduct a utilization-focused evaluation to ascertain treatment providers’ perceptions of probation and parole’s service delivery. The descriptive statistics examined and described broad perceptions of the relationship. Bivariate analysis was conducted to determine whether a relationship existed between different dimensions such as education level, facility staff size, and other variables such as perceived support for treatment and whether probation and parole officers participate in information-sharing meetings. An overall favorable perception of probation and parole was apparent from the survey results. Statistically signific... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621805 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621805 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621804&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F134%3Frss%3D1 Questions of existence of the "China Route" for drug smuggling and trafficking have been important in the literature. The profile of the offenders, particularly whether they are primarily members of traditional criminal organization, is a hotly debated issue. Much qualitative evidence has been collected and it provides important insights into these questions. However, little quantitative data has ever been collected and analyzed to provide a broader picture of these issues. The present study involves the systematical collection of data from court sentencing files from seven high courts whose jurisdictions cover the China Route. The findings provide valuable information that sheds light on the debated questions. Some evidence consistent with the China Route arguments is found. No evidence s... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621804 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621803&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F113%3Frss%3D1 The Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI) and the Youth version (YLS/CMI) generate an assessment of risk/need across eight domains that are considered to be relevant for girls and boys and for women and men. Aggregated across five data sets, the predictive validity of each of the eight domains was gender-neutral. The composite total score (LS/CMI total risk/need) was strongly associated with the recidivism of males (mean r = .39, mean AUC = .746) and very strongly associated with the recidivism of females (mean r = .53, mean AUC = .827). The enhanced validity of LS total risk/need with females was traced to the exceptional validity of Substance Abuse with females. The intra–data set conclusions survived the introduction of two very large samples composed of female offen... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621803 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621802&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F96%3Frss%3D1 This study therefore aims to determine the prevalence and causes of no-show and to explore reasons for nonattendance. The study was carried out in an outpatient clinic in northern Netherlands. Telephone interviews were administered to 27 no-show clients, 84 follow-up no-show clients, and 41 attendees of 18 years and older. A no-show rate of 24.9% and a follow-up no-show rate of 9.8% was found. The majority of appointments missed were in the beginning phase of clinic contact. No-show clients were younger than their attending counterparts and more often dropped out from clinic contact. Also, less family social support was experienced by nonattendees. Reasons for nonattendance were having forgotten about appointment and work commitments. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621802 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621801&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F81%3Frss%3D1 Prison conditions have been at the center of long-standing debates among corrections scholars. Interestingly, this debate has focused on inmates alone while paying little attention to the potential impact of prison conditions on staff. Addressing this limitation, the study draws on survey data collected from a stratified random sample of prison staff working at all federal prisons in 2007 to examine the impact of prison conditions on staff well-being (substance use, psychological symptomatology, physical duress, and sick leave use). Mixed-level models show that harsh physical conditions correspond to significant problems for staff on all outcomes measured (individual-level impacts). The data also show that prison-level aggregations of harsher conditions correspond to significant deteriorat... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621801 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621800&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F61%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of a cognitive training and cell phone intervention on the recidivism of 70 juvenile offenders. Median days to rearrest were 106 for the control group, 191 for the class-only group, and 278 for the class plus cell phone group. Using rearrest as the survival criterion, the survival ratios of the class-only and class plus cell phone groups were 2.64 and 2.94 times longer than the control group, respectively. After controlling for gender, prior arrests, and risk score, the Poisson regression indicated that the class-only and class plus cell phone groups were 51% lower in total arrests than the control group. These results suggest that cognitive training supplemented with a cell phone coach is an effective and cost-efficient intervention... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621800 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621799&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F50%3Frss%3D1 This study aimed to identify changes caused by leuprorelin in a pedophilic patient’s brain responses to pictures representing children. Clinical, endocrine, and fMRI investigations were done of a man with pedophilia before leuprorelin therapy and 5 months into leuprorelin therapy. Patient was compared with an age-matched healthy control also assessed 5 months apart. Before therapy, pictures of boys elicited activation in the left calcarine fissure, left insula, anterior cingulate cortex, and left cerebellar vermis. Five months into therapy, all the above-mentioned activations had disappeared. No such activations and, consequently, no such decreases occurred in the healthy control. The results of this pilot study suggest that leuprorelin decreased activity in regions known to mediate ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621799 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621798&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F29%3Frss%3D1 Analysis of psychometric data from a sample of 413 child molesters who had completed a U.K. probation-based sex offender treatment program was carried out to assess (a) the effectiveness of therapy in the short term and (b) the longer term implications of treatment in relation to sexual recidivism. It was found that 12% (51 offenders) of the sample had recidivated within 2 to 4 years. Of these recidivists, 86% (44 offenders) had been reconvicted for a sexually related offense. One hundred thirty-five offenders (33%) demonstrated a treated profile (i.e., demonstrated no offense-specific problems and few, or no, socioaffective problems at the posttreatment stage). This group was compared with a sample of offenders deemed as not responding to treatment, matched by their levels of pretreatment... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621798 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621797&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F56%2F1%2F6%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this review was to better understand the impact of community notification, known as "Megan’s Law," on sex offenders’ reintegration into the community. Eight quantitative studies that examined the social and psychological impact of community notification on adult sex offenders (N = 1,503) were reviewed. The pattern of results across studies showed considerable similarities despite marked variability in the populations examined, survey methods used, and response rates obtained. Sex offenders rarely reported being the target of vigilante attacks. Substantial minorities reported exclusion from residence and job loss as social consequences of being publicly identified as sex offenders in their communities. The majority of offenders reported negative psychological cons... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621797 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621796&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F56%2F1%2F3%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621796 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5621796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443867&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1324%3Frss%3D1 Actuarial risk assessment instruments for sexual offenders are often used in high-stakes decision making and therefore should be subject to stringent reliability and validity testing. Furthermore, those involved in the risk assessment of sexual offenders should be aware of the factors that may affect the reliability of these instruments. The present study examined the interrater reliability of the Risk Matrix 2000/s between one field rater and one independent rater with a sample of more than 100 sexual offenders. The results indicated good interrater reliability of the tool, although reliability varies from item to item. A number of factors were identified that seem to reduce the reliability of scoring. The present findings are strengthened by examining interrater reliability of the tool i... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443867 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443866&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1308%3Frss%3D1 This study examined ratings from three rater perspectives (therapists, clients, and observers) in a rehabilitation program for high-risk violent prisoners with high PCL-psychopathy scores. The authors used confirmatory factor analysis with a short version of the WAI and examined one-, two-, and three-factor models. It was hypothesized that the context and client characteristics could alter the factor structure of the ratings. However, no differences were found in factor structure by perspective; the results from all rater perspectives suggested that a two-factor structure was the best fit for the data. Thus, we concluded that therapists, observers, and prisoners all saw the goals and task aspects of the therapeutic alliance as distinct from the bond component. (Source: International Journa... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443866 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443865&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1291%3Frss%3D1 Psychopathic traits are associated with violent, aggressive behaviors and recidivism in adulthood. To increase positive treatment outcomes, it is arguably beneficial to identify and treat psychopathy as early as possible. Furthermore, because research shows that the effectiveness of behavior modification is likely to be affected by the social information–processing patterns of aggressive children, it is important to understand the relationship between conduct-disordered traits and social cognitions. The results of this study showed that callous/unemotional traits in a community-based sample of behavior-disordered youth (57 male, 19 female; 10-19 years of age; 63% African American) significantly predicted values in obtaining a tangible reward and getting into trouble or being punished... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443865 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443864&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1272%3Frss%3D1 Although most research and policy in the mental health and criminal justice arenas have operated independently of one another, there is a growing consensus suggesting the need for an integration of these two disparate, yet complementary systems. Furthermore, in light of the adverse mental health consequences that often accompany victimization experiences, it is apparent that these two systems should develop and foster overlapping services for crime victims. The research reviewed herein provides an examination of issues such as these, identifies some of the barriers that stand in the way of a successful integration of the two systems, and attempts to provide some guidance and direction for future integrated mental health and criminal justice system approaches. An outline of research gaps an... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443864 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443864 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443863&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1251%3Frss%3D1 The relationship between religiosity and crime has been the subject of much empirical debate and testing over the past 40 years. Some investigators have argued that observed relationships between religion and crime may be spurious because of self-control, arousal, or social control factors. The present study offers the first investigation of religiosity, self-control, and deviant behavior in the prison context. We use survey data from a sample of 208 recently paroled male inmates to test the impact of religiosity and self-control on prison deviance. The results indicate that two of the three measures of religiosity may be spurious predictors of prison deviance after accounting for self-control. Participation in religious services is the only measure of religiosity to significantly reduce t... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443863 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443862&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1234%3Frss%3D1 A meta-analysis of 19 studies (N = 15,992 offenders) showed a significant inverse relation between more mature moral development and recidivism. Moderator analyses revealed a larger effect size for moral cognition (r = .20) than for moral emotion (r = .11). Effect sizes for production measures (r = .57) were much larger than for recognition measures (r = .16) and unstructured (clinical) judgment (r = .10). Larger effect sizes were found for female delinquents (r = .32) than for male delinquents (r = .21). Only small differences in effect sizes were found between juvenile delinquents (r = .10) and adult delinquents (r = .16). Finally, self-report measures of recidivism revealed much larger effect sizes (r = .32) than official reports of recidivism (r = .09). The discussion focuses on the th... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443862 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443861&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1208%3Frss%3D1 The innovative theory of the "criminal spin" presents a phenomenological description and interpretation of criminal conduct. The theory indicates a process that occurs in different phases of criminality, involving an escalation of criminal activity, thinking, and emotions that run beyond self-control, sometimes contrary to initial decision. Its phenomenology indicates an interaction between individual, group, and situation and a growing self-centeredness with two leading motives: "I can" and "I must." The first denotes a perceived legitimacy and capability to perform criminal conduct. The second reflects an existential threat and a belief that it must be removed by any action. These motives may operate in an acute or a chronic phase, within individuals, groups, or societies. The spin is a ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443861 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443860&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F8%2F1186%3Frss%3D1 The importation model is a venerable theoretical explanation for inmate misconduct but it has not been extended in nearly 50 years. The current study advances a life course importation model of inmate behavior where life events in childhood cascade to predict antisocial behavior during adolescence and misconduct occurring during periods of confinement. Based on data from 2,520 institutionalized male delinquents, ordinary least squares, logistic, and negative binomial regression models indicated that family background variables were largely predictive of multiple facets of delinquent careers. Negative binomial regression models of institutional misconduct indicated that proximal delinquent career variables were more consistently associated with misconduct than distal family background facto... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443860 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5443859&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F8%2F1183%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5443859 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5443859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264034&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1166%3Frss%3D1 Recent work has documented the relatively high incidence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms in women during the birth delivery process and afterwards, even in uncomplicated births. This phenomenon, however, has yet to be linked with cases of neonaticide (child homicide in the first 24 hr of life) or infanticide (child homicide within the 1st year of life). Women are more likely to experience mental disorder after childbirth than at any other time in their lives, and the intentional killing of an offspring by a mentally ill mother is likely underreported. The immediate postpartum period is a time of heightened vigilance by health providers and, when the tragic death of an infant occurs, forensic professionals should specifically assess for PTSD. As an illustration, the authors... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264034 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264033&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1154%3Frss%3D1 This study aimed to improve our understanding of the area using qualitative methods. Sixteen offenders who had participated in a mixed-gender offending behavior program were interviewed as part of this study. Themes from the interviews were analyzed using Grounded Theory techniques. The findings illustrated an overall preference among all participants for mixed-gender rather than single-gender group work. The specific advantages of mixed-gender group work included increased learning about the opposite sex and a more relaxed atmosphere within the group. Although this study reflects positive attitudes to mixed-gender group work, the findings need to be tested further using empirical methodology. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264033 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264032&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1135%3Frss%3D1 This report describes our experience in meeting the challenges that arose and our conclusions regarding the therapeutic potential of this integration. A professional therapeutic staff guided the groups. In-depth interviews of 10 participants and the reflections of the group leaders provided data for learning about the groups’ experience. Initially the participants rejected the concepts of Step 1, powerlessness and unmanageability of life. The assimilation of Step 4 (defining character defect) also aroused some resistance. The participants eventually adopted the pragmatic aspects of TSP, including its terminology. The establishment of a common language of recovery helped to create group coherence and a sense of belonging, and helped to meet the needs of those who felt stigmatized by b... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264032 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264031&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1110%3Frss%3D1 This article reports some of the findings of an evaluation of the Children’s Koori Court (CKC)—the first legislated effort in Australia to involve the Indigenous community in the sentencing of young Aboriginal offenders as a strategy for reducing their overrepresentation in the juvenile justice system. A prominent feature of this court of summary jurisdiction is that the presiding magistrate, while remaining the sentencing authority, is assisted by Aboriginal Elders. This article focuses on the evaluation findings that were derived from observations of the CKC in action. They indicate that the operational objective of cultural responsiveness was realized. They also point to realization of the community-building goal—fostering Indigenous ownership of the administration of ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264031 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264030&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1096%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the relationships between social support and depression in a mixed-gender sample of 198 incarcerated adolescents. Greater support from families and overall and greater satisfaction with supports predicted lower depression for boys and girls. Support from siblings and extended family strongly predicted lower depression; support from parents and from friends was either not related or only weakly related to depression. Girls reported higher levels of depression, more support from friends and extended family, and less support from parents than did boys. Family, sibling, and overall support were stronger predictors of depression for girls than for boys. Results suggest that nonparent family members, especially siblings and extended family, provide important emotional resourc... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264030 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264029&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1072%3Frss%3D1 Numerous theories have attempted to analyze and understand the factors and etiology of juvenile delinquency. The present study is the first to suggest the use of Sellin’s "culture conflict" theory as a possible cultural explanation for the phenomenon of juvenile delinquency. According to Sellin, crime in many instances is a product of culture conflict between the values and norms of a certain subculture in a given society and those of the general culture. Following Sellin’s rationale, this study argues that youths constitute a social subculture with certain values, norms, and stances toward the criminal law that is not necessarily concordant with the moral values and formal norms of the general culture of adults, who determine the content of the criminal law. These assertions a... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264029 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264028&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1051%3Frss%3D1 This article proposes that the way in which Agnew’s formulation of general strain, particularly in its most recent conceptualization as story lines, fundamentally transforms the theoretical and methodological grounding of this approach but fails to offer a clearly articulated alternative theoretical perspective by which to conceptualize this "turn." Phenomenology provides such an alternative perspective and helps to greatly expand our understanding of the human experience of strain. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264028 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264027&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1034%3Frss%3D1 This study examined the association of extent of prisoner self-injurious behavior (SIB) and placement in long-term maximum-security administrative segregation. A prisoner subgroup (n = 132) defined by extent of SIB was matched by conviction prefix and security level to a group of prisoners who had never engaged in SIB (n = 132) and compared on selected variables. Relative to prisoners who either engaged in less extensive SIB or none at all, prisoners who engaged in three or more forms of SIB while in prison were found to be twice as likely to be housed in long-term administrative segregation, less educated, began their criminal careers at an earlier age, engaged in more violence in the community and in prison, involved in property destruction, and experienced a much greater degree of housi... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264027 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264026&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F7%2F1020%3Frss%3D1 This article describes the correctional facilities visited and observations made by the Germans during their correctional facility tours and will focus on the similarities and differences between the German and American correctional systems. The article clearly reflects how international academic collaborations can provide a variety of benefits for those willing to physically venture beyond boarders. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264026 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5264025&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F7%2F1015%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5264025 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5264025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176982&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F6%2F1011%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176982 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176981&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F982%3Frss%3D1 Forcing sexual intercourse on an unwilling marital partner, or marital rape, is not a crime in many societies around the world, because of a marital exemption rule that prohibits the prosecution of husbands who rape their wives. Concurrently, marital rape is one of the least studied phenomena in sexual violence research. This is particularly true for societies in the non-Western world. The current study examined the general attitudes of a sample of university students in Ghana, a West African country, toward marital rape. Respondents were also asked whether an ongoing legislative effort to criminalize marital rape in the country was warranted. The results indicated strong opposition toward criminalization. The results also indicated no marked differences between male and female respondents... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176981 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176981 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176980&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F949%3Frss%3D1 Preoccupation of criminologists with juvenile-onset criminal careers overshadows the fact that offenders who begin their criminal careers in adulthood comprise a substantial portion of adult offender populations. Little is known about adult-onset offenders, generally, and even less about first-time adult-onset offenders. Using a large sample of adult felons on probation supervision, this study explores differences between first and repeat offenders. With respect to risk factors at intake, timing of rearrest, and frequency and nature of supervision failures over 3 years, first-time adult-onset participants exhibited statistically significant differences in relation to both repeat adult-onset and juvenile persistent offenders, with largest differences occurring in analyses involving the latt... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176980 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176979&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F925%3Frss%3D1 Research into the heterogeneity of female violent offending is sparse, even though females constitute a growing part of the prisoner population. There is evidence that the majority of female violent offenders display over-controlled traits related to uncharacteristic offending. This hypothesis was explored through a multivariate model, the Pathways Model of Assault, with interview data from 17 female assault offenders. Five different offence types were displayed, reflecting the same offence styles as male offenders. However, only two participants displayed an over-controlled offence type. Qualitative differences within the data suggested that offender rehabilitation should be tailored specifically for different gender needs in addition to the needs suggested by the different offence types.... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176979 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176979 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176978&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F898%3Frss%3D1 This study investigated the differences in loneliness, sexual satisfaction, and quality of life among three groups of prison inmates: inmates in a heterosexual romantic relationship with a fellow prisoner, inmates with a partner outside the prison, and inmates without a partner. In-person interviews with 70 male and 70 female inmates from the Topas Penitentiary (Spain) were conducted. These inmates lived in the same facility but in gender-segregated modules. After controlling for age, nationality, total time in prison, actual sentence time served, and estimated time to parole, the results showed a lower level of romantic loneliness, and a higher level of sexual satisfaction and global, psychological, and environment quality of life for the group of inmates with a heterosexual partner insid... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176978 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176977&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F880%3Frss%3D1 The files of sex offenders who had been offered treatment at a medium-security state prison were divided into three groups: treatment refusal (n = 59), treatment noncompliance (n = 61), and treatment compliance (n = 36). Demographic, offense-related, clinical, and psychological assessment data were collected. Significant differences were found between groups on years to parole eligibility; plea; relation to victim; childhood sexual victimization; and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2 Variable Response Inconsistency (VRIN), Lie (L), and Masculinity–Femininity (Mf) scale scores. Logistic regression analyses revealed that significant predictors of treatment refusal include increased time until parole eligibility and lower VRIN and Mf scores (vs. noncompliant) as well a... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176977 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176977 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176976&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F863%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this exploratory study was to explore correctional officers’ perceptions and experiences during a solution-focused training program and to initiate development of a modified pattern for correctional officers to use in jails. The study uses grounded theory procedures combined with a follow-up survey. The findings identified six emergent themes: obstacles to doing counseling work in prisons, offenders’ amenability to change, correctional officers’ self-image, advantages of a solution-focused approach (SFA), potential advantages of applying SFA to offenders, and the need for the consolidation of learning and transformation. Participants perceived the use of solution-focused techniques as appropriate, important, functional, and of only moderate difficulty in in... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176976 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176975&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F6%2F846%3Frss%3D1 With bullying in schools high on policy makers’ agendas, researchers are looking for effective strategies to tackle its disruptive effects. The present study sets out to address this issue. First, the prevalence of bullying is examined in Hong Kong High Schools, and second, the effectiveness of a Restorative Whole-school Approach (RWsA) in reducing bullying is examined in a quasi-experimental design. The RWsA emphasizes the setting up of restorative goals, clear instructions, team building, and good relationships among students, parents, and teachers. Over the course of 2 years, and across four schools, the effectiveness of this program was observed by comparing an intervention group with a partial intervention group (which did not receive the full treatment) and a control group (whi... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176975 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5176974&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F6%2F843%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5176974 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5176974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043639&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F816%3Frss%3D1 This study uses data from an experiment in which offenders were randomly assigned to incarceration at one of two prisons polarized across a number of structural characteristics that research suggests affect social bonds (a traditional prison vs. a correctional boot camp). Groups were compared with respect to commitment, belief, attachment, and in terms of changes among their relationships during incarceration. The data showed that the boot camp improved prosocial beliefs, but few differences emerged in terms of commitment and attachment. Similarly, the data showed few differences in attachment regardless of the prosocial or antisocial orientation of the inmate’s friends or family. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043639 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043638&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F799%3Frss%3D1 This article presents a case of dual murder committed by a person having a narcissistic personality disorder with traits of borderline personality disorder. The man, who had no previous problem with the justice system and had never shown any aggressive behaviour, stabbed to death his lover who was leaving him and, a week later, killed his own son. Through weekly clinical sessions over a period of 11 months, the analysis of the crime dynamics, the criminogenesis, and psychodynamics of the two murders allowed the reconstruction of the offender’s psychopathological frame of mind and, in particular, the hypothesis of a symbolic connection between the homicides: The first appears to have been the result of an act of power and control in order to heal his narcissistic wound, whereas the se... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043638 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043637&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F771%3Frss%3D1 In 1969, Charles Manson and his "Family" of followers killed innocent people in an attempt to start a counterrevolution in the United States. Despite the notoriety of this cult leader and his followers over the past 40 years, the sociological literature on crime has not addressed the dynamics behind these seemingly senseless killings. To our knowledge, no serious attempt to apply criminological theory to these murderers and their actions has been made. In this article, labeling theory, general strain theory, and social learning theory are used to explain these murders using a case study approach. The article begins with a description of the goal of Manson’s actions. The murders that took place and their victims are briefly summarized, and several criminological theories are introduce... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043637 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043636&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F756%3Frss%3D1 This study examined ecological risk factors associated with teen paternity in a sample of 2,931 male adolescents coming to the attention of juvenile courts across five midwestern counties. In contrast to previous studies documenting significantly higher rates of teen paternity among African American youth, we found that the European American court-involved youth in our sample were as likely to be teen fathers as their African American counterparts. However, an in-depth examination of the social ecologies of these court-involved youth revealed significant racial differences (regardless of the paternity status), with African American males reporting more prior offenses, delinquent peer associations, traumatic pasts, risky sexual behaviors, and educational risks as compared to European Americ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043636 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043635&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F732%3Frss%3D1 In 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court held the death penalty unconstitutional as applied to juveniles in Roper v. Simmons. The Court reasoned that juveniles were less criminally culpable than adults because they lack maturity, they are more vulnerable to peer influence, and their character is not as well formed as that of adults. Although Roper addressed the imposition of the ultimate punishment of death within the context of a juvenile’s moral blameworthiness for a crime of murder, this article considers the application of the Court’s reasoning in Roper to the issue of juvenile waiver. Specifically, the author asks the question whether Roper’s ultimate language distinguishing juveniles from adults in capital cases should apply to the conventional practice of their trial and se... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043635 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043634&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F716%3Frss%3D1 The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare several actuarial and dynamic risk assessment instruments as to their predictive accuracy and their usefulness in forensic practice. The sample consisted of 109 violent and sex offenders who had been released from prison in Switzerland between 1994 and 1999, and for whom the Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R); Historical, Clinical, Risk Management–20; Level of Service Inventory–Revised; Violence Risk Appraisal Guide (VRAG); and the Swiss assessment instrument FOTRES were scored. Using bivariate logistic regression analyses, all instruments were able to discriminate between recidivists and nonrecidivists. The receiver operating characteristic analyses yielded area under the curve values between 0.70 (VRAG) and 0.84... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043634 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043633&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F693%3Frss%3D1 The social learning theory underlying Andrews and Bonta’s Psychology of Criminal Conduct model has generally been seen as guiding risk assessment, with good relevance to mentally ill as well as non–mentally ill offenders. The current study reports a novel approach to qualitative assessment of 26 murderers found not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI), divided into two groups—neuropathic offenders characterised by frontal lobe deficits and psychosis and psychopathic murderers characterised by high scores on psychopathy and an absence of neuropathic factors. The findings of the present research support the notion that the two pathways are embedded in two diverging theoretical frameworks of psychopathology and social learning theory, with each corresponding to the neuropathi... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043633 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043632&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F5%2F676%3Frss%3D1 This study examined whether evaluators use actuarial risk scores and risk information to make determinations about sex offender risk status for the purpose of enhanced registration and notification. Although it was expected that sexual offenders selected for enhanced registration and notification would have higher scores on actuarial risk assessment tools than those who were not selected, few differences were found between groups with regard to risk factors associated with sexual offense recidivism. Given that actuarial tools enhance the prediction of sexual recidivism, this study may shed light on problems in the implementation of sex offender policy measures. Results are discussed as they pertain to the assessment and application of registration and community notification statutes for se... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043632 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5043631&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F5%2F671%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5043631 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5043631 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835464&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F4%2F665%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835464 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835463&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F4%2F662%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835463 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835462&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F646%3Frss%3D1 This article reviews empirical research regarding the effects of meditation-based programs in correctional populations. Three meditation-based interventions have been shown to represent the majority of empirical research and are reviewed in this article: Transcendental Meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and 10-day Vipassana retreats. Selected dissertation research is reviewed as well. Overall, research suggests three areas in which meditation-based programs provide sufficient treatment to criminal offenders: the enhancement of psychological well-being, a decrease in substance use, and a decrease in recidivism. This suggests that meditation-based programs may be proper treatment programs and support rehabilitation for correctional populations. (Source: International Journal of ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835462 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835461&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F626%3Frss%3D1 This study borrows from a rational choice framework to explore the relationship between attitudes, perceptions of the risks and rewards of engaging in date rape, and self-reported hypothetical aggression in a date rape scenario. Results suggest that rape-supportive attitudes are related to particular patterns of identified risks and rewards of date rape as well as to the self-reported likelihood of engaging in date rape behavior. This supports a perspective that certain attitude structures may alter the risks and rewards that potential offenders consider in deciding whether or not to engage in sexual aggression. Implications for future research and prevention programs are discussed. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835461 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835460&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F605%3Frss%3D1 This article reports on a study of a juvenile diversion program based in California. It replicates a similar 1986 study of a Florida-based juvenile diversion program. Both studies examine the appropriateness of the actual juvenile population serviced in comparison with the declared and described programs’ target populations. Findings in the current research support earlier findings that the diversion program services self-serving, low-risk populations, rather than their intended "first-time nonviolent," more seriously at risk of continued delinquent behavior, target population. This finding is examined in terms of its relationship to issues of labeling and net widening, and suggests how the current study diversion program manages to create a façade that more seriously at-risk ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835460 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835459&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F587%3Frss%3D1 This article (a) outlines the rationale and protocol basics of the MDFT-DTC intervention, a program for substance-using juvenile offenders that links justice and substance abuse treatment systems to facilitate adolescents’ postdetention community reintegration; (b) presents implementation outcomes, including fidelity, treatment engagement and retention rates, amount of services received, treatment satisfaction, and substance abuse—juvenile justice system collaboration outcomes; and (c) details the implementation and sustainability challenges in a cross-system (substance abuse treatment and juvenile justice) adolescent intervention. Findings support the effectiveness of the MDFT-DTC intervention, and the need to develop a full implementation model in which transfer and dissemina... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835459 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835458&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F567%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this study is to use a modified version of Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use to identify the correlates of the number of substance abuse treatment episodes received by rural drug users. Data were collected from face-to-face interviews with 711 drug users in rural areas of Ohio, Arkansas, and Kentucky. Descriptive analyses examine rural drug users’ substance use histories and retrospective substance abuse treatment service utilization patterns. A negative binomial regression model indicated that selected predisposing, historical health, and enabling factors were significantly associated with the utilization of substance abuse treatment among rural drug users. Despite high levels of recent and lifetime self-reported substance use among these rural ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835458 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835457&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F546%3Frss%3D1 This study examined the impact of Geese Theatre’s Re-Connect program on a sample of offenders who attended it. This program used theatre performance, experiential exercises, skills practice role-plays, and metaphors such as the masks to invite a group of offenders to consider and explore issues connected with their release and reconnecting with a life outside prison. Pre- and postprogram psychometric tests, behavior ratings, and interviews were completed to assess the effectiveness of the program. Significant changes were observed from pre- to posttreatment in terms of self-efficacy, motivation to change, and improved confidence in skills (i.e., social and friendship, occupational, family and intimacy, dealing with authority, alternatives to aggression or offending, and self-manageme... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835457 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835456&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F530%3Frss%3D1 This article explores the experience of offenders while under probation supervision and analyses the "pains of probation" in connection to rehabilitation aspirations. The article has two main parts. In the first part of the article, the experiences of probationers are examined using thematic analysis, and eight different pains of probation are identified. In the second part of the article, these pains of probation are examined from two different perspectives: human rights and the Good Lives Model. The conclusion is that these two perspectives support each other and can help reduce the frustrations and deprivations experienced by individuals on probation. By implementing these two perspectives, probation services may overcome the obstacles toward desistance and earn more legitimacy in the e... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835456 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835455&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F4%2F509%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between prison tattoos and the criminal lifestyle and recidivism. Participants consisted of 81 male inmates with prison tattoos (i.e., prison-themed or prison-made tattoos), 75 inmates with nonprison tattoos (e.g., animal tattoos, tattoos of ethnic origin), 52 male inmates with no tattoos, and 66 college students with tattoos. Results indicated that inmates with prison tattoos differed from inmates with nonprison tattoos, inmates without tattoos, and college students with tattoos with regard to criminal thinking styles, were at increased risk of recidivism, and presented more institutional behavioral problems, resulting in more disciplinary infractions. There were no significant differences between inmate groups with regard to numbe... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835455 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4835454&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F4%2F507%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4835454 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4835454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728461&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F492%3Frss%3D1 Because of the limited number of studies that have examined the motives for childhood animal cruelty, researchers continue to suggest that further systematic study is needed. In a replication of the Hensley and Tallichet study and based on survey data from 180 inmates at one medium- and one maximum-security prison in a southern U.S. state, the present study seeks to further develop this understanding by examining the impact of demographic and situational factors on a range of animal cruelty motivations. Of the 180 inmates, 103 (57%) committed acts of animal cruelty. Logistic regression analyses revealed that respondents who committed childhood animal cruelty out of anger were less likely to cover up their behavior and to be upset by their actions but were more likely to have repeated it. T... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728461 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728460&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F476%3Frss%3D1 The Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory—3 is a brief, self-administered screening tool designed to measure the probability of having a substance dependence disorder. The present study assessed the validity of this instrument with an inmate population using a DSM-IV diagnosis of substance dependence as the criterion measure. The study also examined instrument validity by gender. Findings revealed differences in the prediction of dependence between male and female inmates. The advantages and shortcomings of the instrument are discussed in light of these findings, and suggestions for future research are advanced. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728460 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728459&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F460%3Frss%3D1 The authors tested the premise that organisational context variables (i.e., size of organisation, industry type, location, and respondent’s position in organisation) had significant effects on employer (N = 596) attitudes toward employability of ex-offenders. They also examined whether organisational context variables had an equivalent effect on employer attitudes to that of job-seeker criminal history and employer personal characteristics (e.g., respondent age and gender). Using linear regression (HLM 6.02a), organisational context variables were shown to have a significant effect on employer attitudes. In addition, organisational context variables had a significantly greater effect on employer attitudes than did employer personal characteristics. However, job-seeker criminal histor... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728459 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728458&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F445%3Frss%3D1 Gottfredson and Hirschi’s general theory of crime has been widely tested. Yet one of their key hypotheses—the stability of self-control—has received little attention from researchers, and no known study has examined the applicability of the stability hypothesis in a non-Western context. Given Gottfredson and Hirschi’s claim that their low self-control theory transcends cultural and national boundaries, we tested the hypothesis with a nationally representative sample of South Korean adolescents using 5-year panel data. Consistent with studies conducted in the United States, our results offer partial support for Gottfredson and Hirschi’s stability hypothesis. We also provide comparative interpretations of our findings in the South Korean context. (Source: Intern... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728458 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728457&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F430%3Frss%3D1 During the fall of 2005, we interviewed a sample of 103 young men aged 18 to 21 imprisoned at a young offender’s prison in England. Drawing on the theory of planned behavior, as well as the theory of cognitive transformation, our purpose was to investigate prisoners’ reports of their likelihood of reoffending following release from prison. Primary explanatory factors included measures of attitudes, behavioral control, and subjective norms. Attitudes measured inmates’ plans of what they would do following release. Behavioral control variables included indicators of life control and self-efficacy. Subjective norms measured the number of peers inmates reported ever being imprisoned. Prison activities and background characteristics were also modeled. The data were analyzed us... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728457 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728456&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F416%3Frss%3D1 This article reports the results of a preliminary investigation into the core beliefs of a sample of domestically violent men. Three major themes emerged from an analysis of the accounts of their violence, which were understood in relation to three implicit theories that participants held about themselves, their relationships, and the world. These are discussed in terms of previous studies of offender cognition, how domestic violence programs might be conceptualized, and their implications for practice. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728456 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728455&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F392%3Frss%3D1 This study investigated the predictive utility of personality traits, assessed using the Psychopathy Checklist—Revised (PCL-R) and the International Personality Disorder Examination, with 44 consecutive admissions to the DSPD unit at a high-security forensic psychiatric hospital. Incidents of interpersonal physical aggression (IPA) were observed for 39% of the sample over an average 1.5-year period following admission. Histrionic personality disorder (PD) predicted IPA, and Histrionic, Borderline, and Antisocial PDs all predicted repetitive (2+ incidents of) IPA. PCL-R Factor 1 and Facets 1 and 2 were also significant predictors of IPA. PCL-R Factor 1 and Histrionic PD scores were significantly associated with imminence of IPA. Results were discussed in terms of the utility of person... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728455 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728454&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F370%3Frss%3D1 The extent and impact of white-collar offending has drawn the attention of many researchers. However, despite its association with both general and violent criminal behavior, the role that psychopathic traits plays in white-collar crime has been researched less. In an effort to better understand this relationship, psychopathic personality traits were assessed among a sample of 265 undergraduate students using the Psychopathic Personality Inventory—Revised, along with attitudes supportive of environmental offending and intentions to engage in a specific form of environmental offending (toxic dumping). The current study assessed if psychopathic traits were associated with intentions to engage in toxic dumping, as well as the extent to which attitudes supportive of environmental offendi... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728454 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728453&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F3%2F350%3Frss%3D1 The character Hannibal "the Cannibal" Lecter, best known from the motion picture The Silence of the Lambs from 1991, has become a cultural icon and model for later portrayals of seriously disturbed offenders. He displays key characteristics of the Psychopathy Checklist—Revised, such as arrogance, manipulation, callousness, and lack of remorse. From a clinical point of view, one of the most fascinating aspects with Lecter is his display of a variety of capacities alternating between cold-blooded predatory behavior, affection toward FBI special agent Starling, and mourning of the loss of his sister Mischa. Many authors have described the ruthless characteristics of the psychopath. Through the lens of object relations theory, this review systematically examines case descriptions of seve... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728453 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4728452&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F3%2F347%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4728452 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4728452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647637&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F326%3Frss%3D1 This study aims to examine the factors that channel boys and girls toward committing illegal activity. The measures examined include social control factors (belief, commitment, attachment, and involvement) and ideological religious worldviews. The study examines 262 Israeli adolescents who have taken part in illegal and legal activities during the resistance to the Gaza evacuation. Findings suggest that illegal activity levels are greater among boys than girls, whereas ideological obligation and commitment are greater among girls than boys. Involvement with friends positively predicts ideological obligation among boys, which in turn is related to increased likelihood of illegal activity. Among girls, lower commitment and lower belief as well as greater ideological obligation are predictive... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647637 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647636&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F305%3Frss%3D1 Positive criminology is a new conceptual perspective of criminology, encompassing several theories and models. Positive criminology refers to a focus on individuals’ encounters with forces and influences that are experienced as positive, which distance them from deviance and crime, whether by means of formal and informal therapy programs and interventions, such as self-help groups; through emphasis of positive social elements, such as exposure to goodness, social acceptance, and reintegrative shaming; or based on positive personal traits, such as resilience and coherence. The perspective of positive criminology broadens that of traditional criminology, which focuses mainly on understanding the factors and processes that lead individuals and groups to what is defined as deviant and cr... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647636 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647635&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F287%3Frss%3D1 Within the institutional correctional literature, much has been written about the differences in authority between correctional officers and inmates. Recently, researchers have begun exploring the differences in authority between ex-offenders and community corrections officers (CCOs). Emerging literature in the correctional field suggests that ex-offenders perceive CCOs as being socially distant from them and have doubt as to whether CCOs are genuine in their attempts to assist the ex-offenders in reintegrating back into the community. Using qualitative data from a sample of 132 federal and state corrections officers in Seattle, Washington, this investigation advances previous research by examining officers’ perceptions of social distance with their clients. Results from the survey r... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647635 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647634&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F268%3Frss%3D1 Most research on sentencing outcomes reveals that legally relevant factors such as the seriousness of the offense and prior criminal record are primary determinants. There is, however, a substantial body of research that finds that extralegal factors such as a defendant’s sex also influence these outcomes. Most of these latter studies conclude that female defendants receive less severe outcomes compared to their male counterparts. Most of this research, however, is limited to Western societies. To extend this body of research, the current study examines sex differences in sentencing practices for a sample of narcotics offenders in South Korea. Results support previous research; female drug offenders in South Korea are generally treated more leniently than their male counterparts. Tes... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647634 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647633&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F251%3Frss%3D1 Research has shown that offenders, on average, are more likely to be violently victimized than nonoffenders. However, a substantial percentage of offenders are not violently victimized. The current study uses data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) to investigate whether variants of a polymorphism in the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2) distinguish between offenders who are violently victimized and offenders who are not violently victimized. The results show that offenders who are violently victimized are more likely to carry the DRD2 (A1) risk allele than offenders who have not been violently victimized. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647633 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647632&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F228%3Frss%3D1 This article incorporates the works of Akers and Cohen and Felson regarding their social learning theory and routine activities theory, respectively, to construct an integrated conceptual offending framework in sexual homicide. This integrated model produces a stronger and more comprehensive explanation of sexual murder than any single theory currently available. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647632 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647631&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F207%3Frss%3D1 Sexual sadism continues to be a diagnosis fraught with controversy concerning its reliability and validity. The current study examined the offense behavior of 39 civilly committed sexual offenders diagnosed with sexual sadism compared to a group of similarly committed individual diagnoses with Paraphilia Not Otherwise Specified (NOS)— Nonconsent. In addition, offense elements common across studies of sadism were identified. Specifically, offense behaviors including victim abduction and confinement, beating the victim during a sexual assault, and using restraints were indicative of sexual sadism across studies. In addition, this study found the use of noncontingent threats as well as gestures of mutuality to be more common among sadists. Results overall suggest that sadistic acts may ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647631 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647631 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647630&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F2%2F182%3Frss%3D1 This study assessed the occurrences and intensity of psychological, physical, and sexual attitudes toward dating violence among Thai youths, and examined possible variables related to the formation of these attitudes.The random sample consisted of 1,296 male and female adolescents from high school, vocational school, and out-of-school groups. Thai youths in general reported attitudes that were supportive of dating violence. The variables more closely related to attitudes toward dating violence were personal variables. Peer influence, partner relationships, and family characteristics were related to higher support for dating violence. Females reported higher endorsement of dating violence than males. The theoretical and practical implications of the results are discussed, and recommendation... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647630 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4647629&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F2%2F179%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4647629 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4647629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421421&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F155%3Frss%3D1 The link between drug and alcohol abuse and criminal behavior is clearly illustrated in the literature. The options of how to respond to these offenders, however, has widely fluctuated over time. Currently, many states have reconsidered their "get tough" approach to one that is more rehabilitative in nature. One particular community-based intervention that has gained in popularity is the drug court model. The literature on drug courts is generally supportive; however, there is a need to examine effectiveness by target population. The purpose of this study is to explore recidivism rates of drug court clients by drug of choice. Using a 2-year follow-up period, this study finds that drug of choice does not significantly influence either successful graduation or arrest. Policy implications are... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421421 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421420&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F136%3Frss%3D1 This research investigates how individuals who reenter society from prison use coping strategies. Participants are incarcerated individuals who recidivated following a previous release from prison (n = 20). Participants examine their most recent reentry experience via an interview. The research question under investigation is, "What themes describe how individuals cope with reentry from prison to society?" Data and results combine qualitative and quantitative analysis methods. The predominant coping strategy for dealing with reentry barriers is avoidance. There is a defined process experienced by participants, which is initial optimism about release, followed by craving substances, facing practical barriers, and/or feeling overwhelmed. This eventually results in avoidance of managing probl... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421420 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421419&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F118%3Frss%3D1 This study was aimed at finding risk factors that predict both overall recidivism and severity of recidivism in serious juvenile offenders. Seventy static and dynamic risk factors associated with family characteristics, peers, psychopathology, substance abuse, psychological factors, and behavior during treatment were assessed with the Juvenile Forensic Profile in a sample of 728 juvenile offenders. Official reconviction data were used to register recidivism with a minimum time at risk of 2 years. Severity of offending was categorized according to the maximum sentence for the offense committed combined with expert opinion. Several risk factors for recidivism were found: past criminal behavior (number of past offenses, young age at first offense, unknown victim of past offenses), conduct dis... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421419 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421418&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F98%3Frss%3D1 This study examined factors that explained or predicted recidivism of offenders who were mentally impaired and were under various correctional interventions. Offenders in a residential treatment program and specialized probation group, specialized probation alone, and mentally ill offenders who had served time in jail were examined. In comparison to the other two groups, the residential treatment offenders had a more extensive criminal history and were thus more likely to fail on supervision as well as to recidivate after supervision ended. Offenders with an alcohol problem were more likely to recidivate earlier and be rearrested for a violent offense than offenders without an alcohol problem. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421418 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421417&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F75%3Frss%3D1 Although a number of research studies indicate an inverse relationship between age and sexual offence recidivism, the effect of age on sexual and violent reconviction remains unclear, with some studies producing contradictory results. In the present study, reconviction data were obtained for 131 offenders (85 sex offenders and 46 violent offenders) followed up over a 2- and 5-year period. The sample was grouped into four age bands (i.e., ≤24, 25-34, 35-44, and ≥45 years) and rates of sexual, violent, sexual and violent (combined), and any offence reconviction were compared. There was an almost linear relationship between age and rate of reconviction, with the youngest age band (≤24 years) presenting the greatest risk of reconviction and the older age bands (≥45 years) presentin... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421417 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421416&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F56%3Frss%3D1 The aim of this study is to establish whether professionals who have sexually molested children with whom they work present as a homogeneous group identifiable by their personal histories, offending patterns, and profiles as distinct from other child molesters (intra-familial and extra-familial offenders). Participants were matched on age and IQ. It was found that child molesters who were professionals (similar to extra-familial offenders generally) were likely to have sexually abused male, or both male and female, children and had abused more than 20 child victims. Professionals were also significantly more likely to have offended against post-pubescent children than were extra-familial or intra-familial offenders. In terms of psychological profiles, professionals, like extra-familial off... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421416 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421415&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F43%3Frss%3D1 This article reports an evaluation of a New South Wales Department of Corrective Services custody-based treatment programme for adult male sexual offenders. A risk band analysis was used to compare observed and predicted sexual and violent recidivism rates in a sample of 117 treated and released offenders. Risk bands and predicted recidivism were determined using the Static-99 risk assessment measure. Results demonstrated that during an average follow-up period of 3.75 years, observed sexual recidivism rates were lower than Static-99 predictions for the overall sample (8.5% vs. 26%). The same pattern was observed for violent recidivism (12.8% vs. 36%). At each Static-99 level of risk (low, low—moderate, moderate—high, and high), observed sexual and violent recidivism rates were... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421415 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421414&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F27%3Frss%3D1 This comprehensive overview on a sample of 65 cases (134 total offenders, including some partnered teams of more than 2 offenders) provides information on female serial murderers who either work in a mixed-sex offending group or alone. These female serial homicide offenders have a distinct set of offender—victim characteristics, including specific victim preferences, methods, and motivations: Partnered serial homicide offenders are more likely to target adult strangers and despatch them using a combination of methods, whereas solo female serial murderers are most likely to target adult family members and murder them with poison. These patterns have the potential to add to our understanding of the possible similarities and differences of serial homicide cases by building on establishe... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421414 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421413&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F55%2F1%2F5%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the best predictor of lifetime recidivism among Hare’s psychopathy scores (PCL-R), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis, and brain dysfunction measures in a sample of 1,695 adult male sexual, violent, and nonviolent offenders. Results indicated that most variables were associated with significantly more frequent recidivism. The best predictor of overall recidivism was the PCL-R, but more specifically, it was its items on criminal history that were associated with recidivism. Sexual offense recidivism was predicted by the presence of learning disorders; however, all measures were poor predictors. General recidivism was primarily associated with past criminal history and secondarily with learning disorders and ADHD. Results suggest that ADHD and... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421413 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421413 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4421412&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F55%2F1%2F3%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4421412 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4421412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222883&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F1047%3Frss%3D1 This article examines how an anti-graft body, the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), has fared in reducing the incidence of corruption in Nigeria, in particular, bank fraud, Internet scam, and bad governance. It first discusses the corruption situation in Nigeria by highlighting public office holders who have been associated with corruption charges. A Likert-type scale is used in designing the questionnaire for data collection. Descriptive and chi-square analyses are used, and results reveal that the performance of the EFCC has been affected by government interference (p < .05). However, although the anti-graft body has not been able to reduce the incidence of bank fraud (p > .05), bad governance and advance fee fraud have recorded appreciable reduction (p < .05). Are... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222883 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222882&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F1023%3Frss%3D1 This study attempts to address the gap by using Black’s Behavior of Law as a theoretical framework to explicate prosecutorial behavior. With analysis of aggregate-level data from Taiwan for the period 1973 to 2005, the results partially support Black’s propositions. Organization (martial law) and culture (educational attainment) are significantly associated with the levels of change in prosecutors’ behavior in the directions hypothesized using Black’s model. The remaining aspects of social life, however, do not have an effect on the prosecutors’ decisions during the time frame. The findings suggest that mediating variables, such as the extent of governmental autocracy and control over legislative policy, need to be considered in explaining the behavior of law.... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222882 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222881&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F1004%3Frss%3D1 This study investigates the relationship between burnout and the two correctional orientations. Burnout has three dimensions: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and ineffectiveness. This study finds that depersonalization is positively related to support for punishment and negatively related to support for treatment. Ineffectiveness leads to a lower support for treatment whereas emotional exhaustion leads to a higher support for treatment. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222881 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222880&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F984%3Frss%3D1 This article focuses on a social and cultural phenomenon that particularly characterizes the prisoners of Russian origin, the phenomenon of tattoos. Using postmodernist theories, the article examines the function of the tattoo among Russian prisoners and the role it plays in constructing the criminal self-identity of these inmates in Israeli prisons. The tattoos observed during 2005-2006 among the Russian prisoners in four major Israeli prisons reflect the values of the Russian criminal subculture from which they evolved and were imported. This subculture is characterized by a hierarchical class structure and manifestations of machismo, domination, defiance, rebellion, and open antagonism against the Establishment and its representatives. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222880 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222880 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222879&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F959%3Frss%3D1 Suicide is one of the leading causes of inmate death, and many studies have explored suicidal risks among inmates in Western countries. Such studies, however, have been extremely rare in China. Because of China’s unique cultural and social conditions, suicide displays many distinctive features and one of them is the greater percentage of women (than men) who commit suicide. With data collected from three adult prisons in China, this study tests gender differences on prison inmates’ suicidal risk factors and explores the correlation of gender’s impact with other factors. Findings show that male and female inmates present distinctive patterns of suicidal ideation, although gender fails to exert a significant direct impact on the outcome. The results call for different appro... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222879 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222878&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F937%3Frss%3D1 This study examines gender differences in the sense of coherence, perceived social support, and negative emotions among drug-abstinent Israeli inmates. One hundred nineteen inmates have participated in this study (65 men and 54 women). The findings indicate that among female inmates, abstinence of more than a year is related to a decrease in sense of coherence and to an increase in their perceived friend support. In contrast, among male inmates, abstinence of more than a year is related to an increase in sense of coherence and no change at all in their perceived friend support. In addition, hostility level is lower and sense of coherence is higher when the length of abstinence exceeds a year among male inmates. In contrast, among female inmates hostility level is higher when the sense of c... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222878 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222877&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F915%3Frss%3D1 This research seeks to broaden our understanding of methamphetamine’s (meth’s) place within the study of drugs and crime. Through extensive court records research and interviews with 200 offenders in local jails in western Colorado, this research contributes to the creation of a meth user profile and begins to identify the place of meth in the drug—crime nexus. The study compares the criminal behavior of meth users with other drug users, finding that meth users are more likely than other drug users to be drunk or high at the time of arrest and claim their crimes were related to drug use in other ways. A content analysis of criminal records demonstrates that meth users have more extensive criminal records and are more likely than other drug users to commit property crimes.... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222877 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222876&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F895%3Frss%3D1 This study aims to determine whether rape-prone men hold the same offence-supportive ITs as those that have been identified in rapists. This study adopts both an explicit and an implicit measure of ITs (a lexical decision task). In the lexical decision task, participants are primed with an incomplete sentence before being presented with a target word. The target word completes the sentence in either a rape-supportive or a non—rape-supportive manner. The authors predict that men higher on proclivity to rape—who presumably hold strong mental representations of rape-supportive themes—would be faster to respond to word completions that are rape supportive relative to men lower on rape proclivity. Using multiple regressions to determine the relative contributions of both expli... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222876 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222875&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F878%3Frss%3D1 This study addresses this gap in the literature by examining the effects that a number of social and biological variables have on neuropsychological functioning. Analysis of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) indicates that postnatal exposure to cigarette smoke, duration of breastfeeding, maternal involvement, and household income predicts variation in adolescent and adulthood levels of neuropsychological functioning. Implications of the findings are noted and discussed. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222875 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222874&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F6%2F865%3Frss%3D1 The relationship between psychopathy and thinking styles that support and maintain a criminal lifestyle is examined using the Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version (PCL:SV; Hart, Cox, & Hare, 1995) and the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS; Walters, 1995). These measures are administered to a sample of 75 patients recruited from a state psychiatric hospital in the northeastern United States. Correlational analyses indicate that the PICTS General Criminal Thinking, Self-Assertion/Deception factor scale, and several criminal thinking style scales are significantly related to psychopathy. The significantly associated criminal thinking scales include Entitlement (r = .44) and Superoptimism (r = .43) with Factors 1 and 2 of the PCL:SV, respectively. Multiple regr... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222874 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4222873&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F6%2F863%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4222873 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4222873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979034&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F850%3Frss%3D1 In this brief report, antisocial and prosocial adolescents are contrasted in terms of impulsivity and venturesomeness, and the cognitive style of field dependence— independence are assessed using the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT). The data have been collected from a total of 366 youths, ranging in age between 12 and 18 years. Antisocials are found to score below average, whereas the prosocials score above average on the GEFT. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979034 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:47 +0100 3979034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979033&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F829%3Frss%3D1 In this article the authors analyze the nature and aims of criminal profiling from a theoretical point of view. The need to become increasingly "scientific" has given rise to the modern approaches of profiling, which have been particularly successful in cases of serial homicides and sex crimes, given that compulsive (perverse) acts, because of their ritual nature, have been described as being more easily foreseeable and presumably linkable to the psychological and even personal characteristics of a given criminal. On this basis, the authors analyze profiling from an epistemological point of view and show how, in the concrete activity of profiling, profilers depart from the "certainty" of the scientific models (those that are based on deductive—inductive processes); the epistemologica... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979033 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979032&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F803%3Frss%3D1 This systematic review assessed the validity of screening instruments to identify the risk of suicide and self-harm behaviour in offenders. A search of 11 electronic databases and grey literature resulted in the inclusion of five studies. The five studies revealed four screening instruments, including the Suicide Checklist, the Suicide Probability Scale, Suicide Concerns for Offenders in Prison Environment (SCOPE), and the Suicide Potential Scale. Two instruments, SCOPE and Suicide Potential Scale, shared promising levels of sensitivity and specificity. The reporting of information was generally varied across items on the Standards for the Reporting of Diagnostic accuracy (STARD). Research is needed to assess the predictive validity of tools for offender populations in the identification o... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979032 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979031&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F783%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the role that a history of child sexual abuse played in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders in a sample of 321 female offenders incarcerated in a maximum-security prison for women. The results show that a history of child sexual abuse increases the likelihood that an inmate would receive mental health treatment. Psychotropic medication is frequently prescribed in response to adjustment problems associated with childhood sexual abuse. White women who exhibit adjustment problems associated with a history of child sexual abuse are especially likely to be diagnosed as mentally disordered at admission and to be sent to the mental health unit for treatment. In the absence of a diagnosed mental disorder at admission, women who receive psychotropic medication to hel... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979031 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979030&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F769%3Frss%3D1 This study endeavors to begin to fill this gap by examining attitudes in hiring applicants charged with a crime. To accomplish this goal, 275 college students read a job description for a cashier position and then read 1 of 12 descriptions of an applicant varied by criminal history, qualifications, and race. Participants rate the applicants across dimensions relevant to hiring decisions. Results indicate that applicants with drug possession charges and low qualifications were less likely to be referred for hire. Severity of charges influences employability. Among applicants with a misdemeanor, qualifications increase employability, but qualifications have no influence for applicants with a felony. Implications of these findings for policy and vocational rehabilitation programming are discu... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979030 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979029&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F756%3Frss%3D1 This article examines the impact of age and multiple stigmatized statuses by comparing an emerging adult and older cohort of psychiatrically disabled offenders. It explores whether there are features (demographic, clinical, and criminal ) that distinguish emerging adults that should be considered in creating appropriate community services for treatment and prevention and subsequent desistance from continued criminal involvement. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979029 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979028&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F743%3Frss%3D1 This study investigates individual and group cognitive—behavioral interventions in decreasing psychological symptoms and enhancing the psychological status of Iranian prison inmates. A random sample of 180 males is placed in three equal groups: an individual cognitive—behavioral therapy (CBT) group, an individual and group CBT group, and a control group. General Health Questionnaire, Symptom Checklist-90— Revised, and diagnostic interviews based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.) are used before and after intervention. MANOVA indicates that both methods improve the psychological status of the inmates and reduce their symptoms, but the combined treatment is more efficient than the individual therapy. In a 1-year follow-up afte... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979028 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979027&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F721%3Frss%3D1 This article describes the concept of a TC, its operating principles and rationale, as well as the benefits and rationale for establishing TCs in conjunction with cognitive—behavioural treatment with sexual offenders. This is discussed in terms of the potential of TCs to improve targeting of treatment content, to enhance treatment process, to provide optimal environments for therapeutic gain, and to provide a broad therapeutic framework for treating sexual offenders. The article reviews and summarizes what evidence exists for the use of TCs with both non-sexual offenders and sexual offenders. Finally, it highlights the gaps in our knowledge of the use of TCs to inspire further empirical and conceptual consideration of these issues. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy a... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979027 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979026&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F706%3Frss%3D1 This article explores the association between employment and recidivism for parolees released from Texas prisons. Along with determining whether obtaining employment on release from prison is associated with decreased odds of reincarceration, this article analyzes whether obtaining employment is associated with increased time to reincarceration. Proportional hazard models were used to examine the effect of employment on reincarceration over time. This analysis allowed a unique view of desistance from crime as a process of behavioral change with multiple stages. Results generally support this perspective, finding that although obtaining employment is not associated with a significant decrease in likelihood of reincarceration, it is associated with significantly greater time to reincarcerati... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979026 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979025&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F693%3Frss%3D1 This study investigates the nature of hope in offenders in relation to their risk for future criminal behaviour. The results indicate that hope is indeed related to the risk for reoffending. The information obtained through this research will inform researchers and clinicians about the nature of hope in a correctional population and its relation with risk for future criminal behaviour. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979025 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979024&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F5%2F667%3Frss%3D1 The objective is to gain increased understanding of what differentiates successful parolees from those who fail. Success is defined as being discharged from parole by 3 years after release. The study examines the extent to which drug treatment, friendships, work, family bonds, and age are associated with reentry success. Contrary to expectations, it is found that closeness to mother, closeness to father, having a partner, being a parent, and education level are not associated with parole success. Those who succeed on parole are more likely to have taken a substance abuse class while in prison and on release tend to spend more time in enjoyable activities with friends. Among the employed, those that worked at least 40 hours a week are more likely to complete parole successfully. Qualitative... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979024 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3979023&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F5%2F663%3Frss%3D1 (No abstract is available for this citation) (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3979023 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:38:46 +0100 3979023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793124&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F4%2F656%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793124 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793123&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F640%3Frss%3D1 The main aim of this research is to develop a profile of a thief. Through a comprehensive survey of property crime suspects arrested in the city of Ankara between 2004 and 2005, the authors have attempted to determine the socioeconomic qualities of those involved in these forms of property crimes. Results of the study show that property crimes are a consequence of low education, lack of occupational skills, and alcohol and drug addiction on the part of the offenders. Because of these factors, theft becomes a way of life for offenders after their first act of property crime. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793123 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793122&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F625%3Frss%3D1 On the basis of the reasoning of social support theory, the authors examine the macro effect of social support on anomie at the individual level. Data from international surveys have documented wide variation in anomie across nations, but to what extent this variation among nations can be contributed to structural characteristics has not been explored before. Using hierarchical linear modeling techniques to sort out the effects of structural context and personal characteristics on anomie across 31 European and North American nations, the authors test the hypothesis that variation in social support at the national level is inversely related to individuals’ sense of anomie. The study results support the hypothesis that structural characteristics of a nation, such as social support and ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793122 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793121&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F611%3Frss%3D1 This study explored the relationship between severity of personality disorder and interpersonal style in patients admitted for treatment to a secure psychiatric unit. Up to four nurses rated each patient’s interpersonal style using the Impact Message Inventory, a self-report transactional inventory. Patients then rated the interpersonal style of these same staff. Contrary to expectations, severity of personality disorder was not associated with patients’ interpersonal style or to variance in nurses’ assessments of patients’ interpersonal style. However, patients with more severe personality disorder tended to show greater variability in their assessment of nurses’ interpersonal style, specifically their appraisal of staff members’ interpersonal dominance... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793121 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793120&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F597%3Frss%3D1 This study raises some questions about the true ability of drug treatment programs to treat and rehabilitate drug-abusing offenders, diverting the emphasis from the treatment program itself to the participants’ motivation to change. Findings are discussed in regard to prison-based drug treatment programs, after-release impediments encountered by inmates, and inmates’ expectations of successful reintegration into the normative noncriminal society. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793120 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793119&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F581%3Frss%3D1 In this study, using a sample of 500 young Italians, the authors try to verify whether value systems can be considered predictors of juvenile deviance and if so, which type of value system. An attempt is made to identify what is the values’ capability to explain deviance in comparison with other psychosocial and demographic predictors. Results confirm the past findings of a relation between hedonistic and materialistic values and deviance but show only a modest and peripheral ability of values to explain deviance. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793119 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793118&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F566%3Frss%3D1 This study investigates the relationships between father criminality, prior delinquency, and recidivism using data from 382 incarcerated juveniles assessed in Singapore’s Juvenile Court in 2005. The juveniles are aged 13 to 16 years, with a mean of 14.55 years (SD = 0.93). Using Baron and Kenny’s framework, this study tests the prediction that the prior delinquent behaviors of the juvenile mediate the relationship between father criminality and recidivism in a four-step process. When the juvenile’s prior delinquent behaviors are included in the model, the previous significant relation between father criminality and recidivism disappears. Implications of findings in terms of applied and practical intervention and prevention work for youths in schools and those in incarcera... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793118 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793117&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F552%3Frss%3D1 Discussion regarding the significance of the results and recommendations for future research are provided. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793117 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793116&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F537%3Frss%3D1 This study examines how registered sex offenders (RSOs) experience, respond to, and attribute stress regarding sex offender registration and notification process and policies. In addition, the frequency and reasons for Internet access is assessed, with a focus on how new legislation in New Jersey (P.L. 2007, C.219) limits or blocks such access. Drawing on survey data from a random sample of 1,000 RSOs in New Jersey, responses from 107 RSOs show significant levels of stress, significant losses due to restrictions on Internet access, and coping methods associated with higher and lower stress levels. The most significant loss reported by the sample related to employment search difficulties. Factors associated with increased levels of stress include using self-distraction for coping and not ac... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793116 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793115&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F517%3Frss%3D1 Offender rehabilitation, pitting the rational ability of criminal justice against the seeming irrationality of criminal behavior, remains controversial. Psychology highlights the importance of emotions in mediating individual behavior. Borrowing from restorative justice as a more emotionally intelligent form of justice, this article examines the role of shame and guilt in a domestic violence offender treatment program. The emotions are differentiated and then activated, similar to the use of reintegrative shaming in restorative justice, to promote greater offender accountability and empathy. Using a two-group comparison of male domestic violence offenders, measurements were taken on three sets of scales in assessing the outcome of the shame transformation process. Statistically significant... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793115 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793114&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F494%3Frss%3D1 Fifteen inmates from Ayalon prison, a maximum-security prison in Israel, who were convicted of murder, attempted murder, or manslaughter of their female intimate partner, have participated in a study designed to examine integrated variables—personal, interpersonal, and environmental—familial—connected with this phenomenon. Analyses of the in-depth interviews demonstrate that despite the different motivations the perpetrators displayed with regard to the murder, they share some common themes. On the basis of these themes, three primary types of female intimate partner murderers have been identified; each of them represents a personal narrative as follows: the betrayed, the abandoned, and the tyrant. The proposed typology might be used for establishing a common language amo... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793114 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793114 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793113&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F4%2F478%3Frss%3D1 This study also reveals that the amount of warmth and autonomy received during childhood is associated with both intra- and extra-familial child-molesting behaviour. These findings contribute to a further explanation of this deviant sexual conduct and to the development and differentiation of the treatment of child molesters. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793113 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793113 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3793112&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F4%2F475%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3793112 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:33:43 +0100 3793112 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536430&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F448%3Frss%3D1 The family relationships of adolescents brought up by an addicted parent were studied in a qualitative research. The authors interviewed 19 adolescents, all of whom had a parent either actively addicted to drugs or else recovering addicts. The participants were assigned to one of two groups based on the degree to which they maintained normative lives or descended into addiction. It was found that the relative strength of the adolescents within the triad of forces (mother, father, self) had great significance for their development. Younger siblings awakened a desire to protect them from a life of addiction. The extended family was also found to have a potential to influence, in keeping with the significance the young people attributed to these relatives. The results indicate a definition, t... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536430 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536429&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F441%3Frss%3D1 The study takes a detailed look at psychiatric patient violence towards their psychiatrists. It takes into consideration the views and opinions of Italian psychiatrists, whether they have experienced violent behaviour firsthand and, if so, which type of aggression and whether this caused them to modify their behaviour towards the patient and his or her treatment. A multiple-choice questionnaire is sent to all members of the Italian Society of Psychiatry, with 1,202 psychiatrists responding (20.23% of the sample). The data are evaluated using SPSS with chi-square test calculations for discrete and continuous variables and t-testing for independent samples (significance p < .05). Almost all psychiatrists (90.9%) have experienced verbal aggression; 72% have been threatened with dangerous o... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536429 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536428&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F430%3Frss%3D1 This study investigates the point prevalence of substance use disorders in 150 perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) in a forensic setting and compares participants with and without substance use disorders on demographic and offence-related variables. Furthermore, it investigates the frequency of IPV perpetrated under the influence of substances. Half the sample (50.0%) meets diagnostic criteria for at least one substance-related diagnosis. Significantly more IPV perpetrators without substance use disorders compared with IPV perpetrators with substance use disorders have children living at home and have abused their children. Relative to IPV perpetrators without substance use disorders, significantly more IPV perpetrators with substance-related disorders are found to be under the... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536428 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536428 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536427&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F412%3Frss%3D1 This study examined preferences for the content of offender profiles between two different groups of participants to assess the importance of presentation style and linguistic emphasis. The sample consisted of 70 undergraduate psychology students and 30 serving police officers who were each presented with a case study and three profiles constructed to represent three stylistically different representations of the offender. The accompanying questionnaire indicated significant differences in the profile selection between police officers and students, and also, more important, some disparity in the way these preferences are articulated and justified. Detailed analysis of results and suggestions for future research are also included. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Compa... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536427 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536426&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F395%3Frss%3D1 This article presents the first study on post-conviction polygraphy in the Netherlands. Importantly, it exclusively focuses on cybercrime offenders. The study is designed to systematically address the different child sexual behaviours exhibited by 25 participants who are in treatment for possessing child abuse images. The results indicate that post-conviction polygraphy can provide additional data to inform the development of theory in this area and contribute to the treatment, supervision, and more effective containment of offending behaviour and the reduction of future victimization. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536426 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536425&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F378%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the effect of inmate and institutional characteristics on inmate victimization during incarceration. In addition, it examines whether factors related to inmate victimization varies by perpetrator type, specifically inmate versus staff victimizer. Self-reported data from 247 male and female inmates confined to eight correctional institutions are collected, including questions regarding their experiences of staff-on-inmate and inmate-on-inmate victimization. Results show that similar institutional-level variables predict both types of inmate victimization; however, there are some differences between outcomes based on inmate-level characteristics. The authors address possible explanations for the results and suggest several policy implications to reduce the incidence of pr... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536425 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536424&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F361%3Frss%3D1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses and antisocial behaviors that contribute to criminality, yet studies of ADHD in offenders are few. The authors evaluate a random sample of 319 offenders using a version of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and Medical Outcome Survey Health Survey. ADHD was present in 68 subjects (21.3%). Offenders with ADHD were more likely to report problems with emotional and social functioning and to have higher suicide risk scores (p < .001). They also had higher rates of mood, anxiety, psychotic, and somatoform disorders. Antisocial and borderline personality disorders were also more common among offenders with ADHD. The authors conclude that ADHD is common in offenders and is associate... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536424 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536424 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536423&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F346%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the role of emotional state in the reintegration of ex-prisoners. Participants were 101 adult prisoners (72 male, 29 female) who completed a questionnaire 1 month prior to their release and at two postrelease points focusing, first, on prison-related experiences and, second, on the quality of life conditions experienced following release. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were also completed at each interview. Results indicate that mean BDI-II scores were significantly higher at prerelease than postrelease, while mean anxiety scores were unchanged over the period under investigation. There are significant relationships between numerous reintegration variables and emotional state following release. At each postrelease point, lower depr... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536423 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536422&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F327%3Frss%3D1 Although recidivism is lower among sexual offenders who have received treatment than those who have not, evaluation and treatment studies reach different numbers on recidivism rates and effectiveness. The question still remains as to what exactly works for whom; that is, does one kind of treatment work for all sexual offenders? This empirical study attempts to develop a sex offender typology that refers to treatment-relevant factors and characteristics to generate a framework for developing specific treatment approaches. In a first step the authors conduct a survey of experts to identify treatment-relevant factors for the later typology. In the main part of the study, 199 sexual offenders incarcerated in German prison and forensic facilities are examined according to the identified charact... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536422 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536421&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F307%3Frss%3D1 Convicted sex offenders attending an outpatient treatment program in Connecticut were surveyed about their experiences in therapy, their perceived importance of treatment content, their satisfaction with the help they receive, and their engagement in therapeutic services. There were strong correlations between perceived importance of content items and satisfaction with services. A robust correlation was also found between engagement and satisfaction. Clients rated accountability and victim empathy as the most important components of treatment. Other popular content areas were thinking errors, relapse prevention concepts, uncovering motivations to offend, and controlling deviant arousal. Most sex offenders valued the peer support and confrontation offered by group therapy. Though reduced re... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536421 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536420&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F3%2F289%3Frss%3D1 This article investigates some of the primary assumptions and values that underpin correctional practice in the area of offender rehabilitation. It is suggested that values are reflected in offenders’ and clinicians’ fundamental beliefs about the rehabilitative process and as such underlie their various actions. This article identifies three areas in which values may be important (organisational values about crime and punishment, professional values, and personal values) and discusses each in relation to its relevance for rehabilitative practice. It is concluded that despite the apparent role of values in the correctional domain, very little is known about the values of those who deliver rehabilitative programs and how these might influence rehabilitative outcomes. (Source: Int... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536420 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536419&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F3%2F287%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536419 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:07:08 +0100 3536419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333611&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F264%3Frss%3D1 This study examined survey data to determine the importance of each form of social control among Chinese and U.S. college students. Chinese students were more likely to view formal and informal crime control as important mechanisms. Furthermore, Chinese students ranked the blending of formal and informal crime control as being more important. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333611 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333610&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F250%3Frss%3D1 From the perspective of prosocial behavior, bystander intervention is conditioned by situational factors; from an informal social control perspective, bystander intervention has been demonstrated to be associated with level of crime and violence at the community level. By drawing on findings in two contrasting communities within a Chinese city, this study investigates the effects of fear of crime and type of community on bystander intervention. It shows that fear of crime and type of community have robust and consistent effects on bystander intervention, controlling for demographic characteristics including sex, age, and education. The implications of the findings are discussed in terms of bystander intervention as both prosocial behavior and informal social control. The findings also ques... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333610 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333609&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F236%3Frss%3D1 A new pictorial assessment was developed to measure aggression-supportive cognitions among young aggressive male students. The assessment was comprised of 17 watercolor ambiguous sketches that could be interpreted in either an aggressive or a benign manner (e.g., two young people facing each other with their arms folded). The results showed that high trait aggressive male students were more likely to make hostile attributions of the pictures, providing significantly more themes of entitlement and power in the stories they generated about the pictures. Aggressive male students also endorsed significantly more aggression-supportive cognitions on a self-report measure and provided some supporting qualitative accounts of physically aggressive encounters. The results of this study are discussed... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333609 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333608&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F213%3Frss%3D1 Like adult drug courts, juvenile drug courts have proliferated at a rapid rate during the past 15 years, but comparatively little research has been conducted on them. Although a few studies indicate that these programs appear to show promise as an intervention, almost nothing has been published using systematic and empirical methods to provide a description and specific examples of how these programs are structured and implemented. The purpose of the current study, therefore, is to summarize and integrate findings from systematic process evaluations of three juvenile drug courts. Similarities and differences in the structure and design of the programs are noted and findings regarding the program model for each juvenile drug court, including target population, therapeutic activities, and in... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333608 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333607&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F197%3Frss%3D1 This study reports on the results of a review and meta-analysis of 63 data sets that examine sexual recidivism among juvenile sex offenders. The studies include a total of 11,219 juvenile sex offenders, followed for a weighted mean of 59.4 months (SD = 36.1 months). Recidivism is identified through official records of arrest or conviction. The weighted mean sexual recidivism rate is 7.08% ( SD = 3.9%). The weighted mean rate of general recidivism is 43.4% ( SD = 18.9%). Studies that examine sexual recidivism during adolescence find monthly sexual recidivism rates that are more than 4 times higher than those found in studies that rely only on adult recidivism records. Neither the level of secured placement (community, residential, or secured custody) nor the use of arrest versus conviction ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333607 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333606&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F187%3Frss%3D1 This study describes the diagnostic and risk profiles of 331 sexual offenders held under Wisconsin’s sexual offender statute and compares them to the people held in those other states. Persons detained under Wisconsin’s law substantially differ from those in the other states. This variability is attributed to differences in both diagnostic procedures and statutory risk thresholds. The authors believe this is the first study to directly compare diagnoses and risk measures of sex offenders referred for commitment in different states, thereby offering a more national view of who is detained under these laws. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333606 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333605&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F169%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the predictive validity of the most commonly used risk assessment instruments for sexual offenders: Static-99, Rapid Risk Assessment for Sexual Offense Recidivism, Sex Offender Risk Appraisal Guide, Sexual Violence Risk—20, and Psychopathy Checklist—Revised in a prospective research design. Although risk assessment is part of a regime leading to various efforts to reduce risk by treatment and aftercare, all instruments show good predictive validity. However, depending on the instrument, recidivism category, and subgroup, the predictive accuracy varies markedly. Furthermore, the authors fail to demonstrate predictive validity for sexual violent reoffences—for the whole sample and for all subgroups. The results, nevertheless, support the utility and pred... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333605 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333604&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F2%2F150%3Frss%3D1 This study examines the views of 261 sexual abuse professionals regarding sex crime policies. Few participants believe that community notification is very effective in reducing sex offenses, but about half believe that all sex offenders should be subject to public disclosure. About one quarter of respondents opine that sex offenders should not be allowed to live in their communities, but a majority do not view residential housing restrictions for sex offenders as effective at reducing recidivism. Most believe in the helpfulness of therapeutic intervention. More than half say that they will support sex offender policies even without scientific evidence of their effectiveness. Criminal justice professionals are more likely to approve of these laws compared to mental health professionals. Tho... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333604 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3333603&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F2%2F147%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3333603 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:29:53 +0100 3333603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187664&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Freprint%2F54%2F1%2F141%3Frss%3D1 (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187664 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3187664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187663&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F1%2F131%3Frss%3D1 This article describes the process and results of monitoring the programme integrity of FOR . . . A Change, a group programme for offenders, as it was being delivered in three prisons in the United Kingdom. In so doing, it briefly describes the aims, structure, and theoretical orientation of the programme; explains what informed the particular approach to checking for integrity and how it was implemented; outlines the results; and finally, postulates the requisite conditions for the successful maintenance of programme integrity. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology) International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187663 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3187663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187662&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F1%2F113%3Frss%3D1 In this study, the interactive effect of stereotype and suggestion on accuracy of memory was examined by presenting 645 participants (native Israelis and immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia) with three versions of a story about a worker who is waiting in a manager’s office for a meeting. All versions were identical except for the worker’s name, which implied a Russian or an Ethiopian immigrant or a person of no ethnic origin. Each participant was presented with one version of the story. After an hour delay, the participants’ memories were tested via two questionnaires that differed in terms of level of suggestion. Data analyses show that (a) when a suggestion matched the participant’s stereotypical perception, the suggestion was incorporated into me... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187662 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3187662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187661&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F1%2F92%3Frss%3D1 In this study, 120 males (60 sexual offenders and 60 non—sexual offenders) in psychiatric treatment while in prison were evaluated using neuropsychological, psychological, and sociological/demographic measures. All sexual offenders (N = 60) would be evaluated for potential civil commitment as sexually violent predators before prison release. Non—sexual offenders (N = 60) had not been convicted of a sexual offense. Sexual offenders demonstrated significantly more overall neuropsychological impairment suggesting diffuse brain differences, with dysfunction primarily associated with temporal and frontal brain cortexes; higher Psychopathy Checklist—Revised Factor 1 (Interpersonal/Affective) ratings and Rorschach responses indicated disordered attachment, disordered self-percep... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187661 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3187661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187660&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F1%2F71%3Frss%3D1 This study provides a preliminary descriptive profile of individuals having been issued an 810 recognizance order (i.e., peace bond). This preventive order is issued to individuals in the community considered by the court to be high-risk sex offenders. In total, 88 offenders were issued an 810.1 (at risk of sexual offence against a child) or an 810.2 (at risk of a personal injury offence) recognizance order between April 2006 and February 2008, among whom 59 sex offenders were included. The sociodemographics, risk profiles, and recidivism of offenders under the orders were analyzed. Two risk assessment tools, the Static-99 and the Stable, were used to describe this population. Comparisons were made between sex offenders under 810.1 and 810.2 orders. Preliminary analyses suggest that these ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187660 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3187660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187659&cid=s_27144_36_f&fid=27144&url=http%3A%2F%2Fijo.sagepub.com%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fabstract%2F54%2F1%2F61%3Frss%3D1 This study looked at 12 juveniles in Wisconsin who were recommended by experts for commitment under Chapter 980, known as the Sexually Violent Person Commitments Act, but who ultimately were not committed. The purpose was to determine the accuracy of these assessments and risk for sexual reoffending for juvenile sexual offenders. The results found a rate of 42% sexual recidivism among these individuals, with a 5-year at-risk period. This figure is in contrast to the low rates of sexual recidivism reported in the general juvenile sexual research. This provides evidence that the capability to assess the risk in juvenile sexual re-offending may at times be higher than previously estimated. Implications of these unusual results are discussed. (Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy ... International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187659 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3187659