PublicationS

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The Contribution of Psychopathic Traits and Substance  Use in the Prediction of Recidivism of Sexual Offenders

Substance use and dependence may play an essential role in the risk of reoffending by sex offenders. Research examining the influence of substance use and dependence on the criminal behaviour of psychopathic sex offenders is limited. Alcohol and drug use have been identified as factors which promote criminal behaviour and are suspected to contribute, at least partially, to the probability of reoffending. For instance, previous research showed that elevated scores on the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) contribute to the predictability of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist - Revised (PCL-R) on recidivism. The current study retrospectively evaluated a database of incarcerated high-risk offenders registered in the Regional Treatment Center, Sex Offender Treatment Program (RTCSOTP); in order to assess the contribution of self-disclosed histories of alcohol and substance use and dependency have, in concert with measures of psychopathic characteristics, on the predictability of recidivism. Results of the retrospective data identified PCL-R and DAST (Drug Abuse Screening Test) scores as significant predictors of sexual and violent recidivism of male inmates undergoing treatment in RTCSOTP within 5 years of their release. MAST scores, however, did not significantly contribute to the predictability of sexual and violent recidivism in this population. We conclude, drug use should be considered as an important factor when addressing recidivism in sexual offenders who demonstrate psychopathic characteristics.

Keywords: Psychopathic traits; Recidivism; Sexual offenders; Substance abuse.

CITATION

Bazinet,A., Carniello, T., Abracen, J, Looman,J. & Valliant,P.M.  (2022), The Contribution of Psychopathic Traits and Substance  Use in the Prediction of Recidivism of Sexual Offenders.  International Journal of Law and Psychiatry, 81. 

Characteristics of Prospective Partners in Elderly Care  Facilities

 With the increase in the aging population it is becoming progressively more important to identify those best suited to work in care facilities with the elderly. Identifying individuals with positive attitudes toward the elderly is an important step in achieving this goal. The purpose of the current study was to determine which personal characteristics are indicative of positive attitudes towards older adults. The 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire [1] and the Attitudes Towards Old People scale [2] were administered to evaluate these factors. Characteristics examined included age, gender, and level of education and personality. Participants between the ages of 18 to 50 years old were recruited in Northern Ontario. The results indicated that gender and personality factors (warmth, reasoning, vigilance, privateness and openness to change) were predictive of positive attitudes towards older adults. These results have implications for identifying individuals who are best suited to work with the aging population. 

CITATION

 Sinclair, A., Pianosi, B., Whissell,, C., Aeick, C., Valliant, P.M. (2020) Characteristics of Prospective Partners in Elderly Care  Facilities, International Journal of Internal Medicine and  Geriatrics, 2(2), 122-128.  

Positive  Aging a Two Way Street: Healthy Life Style and Attitudes Toward  Others

 Background: Previous research has indicated the attitudes that others have toward older adults play an important role in their well-being. The current study contributes to the literature because it evaluates attitudes toward older adults. Methods: The participants included Caucasian and Indigenous people residing in Northern Ontario. All participants were asked to complete a demographics questionnaire and the Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People Scale (KAOP). Results: Results indicated that Indigenous participants had more positive attitudes toward older adults than Caucasian participants. Conclusions: The implications of this research would indicate specific strategies must be implemented to ensure older adults are not marginalized but included in family and community events. 

CITATION

  Valliant, P.M., Aelick,C., Sinclair,A., Caswell,J. (2018) Positive  Aging a Two Way Street: Healthy Life Style and Attitudes Toward  Others, OBM Geriatrics