NCJ Number
161882
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1996) Pages: 19-34
Date Published
1996
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This is a comparison of structured interview and questionnaire approaches in obtaining details regarding sexual offenders' modus operandi.
Abstract
Clinical practice has long supported the use of structured interviews with both perpetrators and victims of sexual offenses. However, empirical studies have examined the differential utility of structured interviews and self-report questionnaires for obtaining information about sex offenders' modus operandi. This investigation compared the ability of these two assessment approaches to provide details regarding sexual offenders' modus operandi from the perspective of victims, incarcerated offenders, and offenders in outpatient treatment. Study findings indicated that both approaches yielded consistent information for most items across participant groups. For modus operandi items that were not consistently reported, more information was obtained via the questionnaire format. However, in one instance, the interview format obtained significantly more information about incarcerated offenders' use of threats and coercion to gain victim cooperation in sexual activity. Implications for child sexual abuse prevention, offender and victim treatment, and future research are discussed. Tables, references