THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN SELF-PREDICTION, PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY, TREATMENT HOURS, AND TREATMENT NEEDS AMONG INCARCERATED OFFENDERS

Author

Yasmin Nielsen, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Date of Award

5-1-2024

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Kroner, Daryl

Abstract

Self-prediction is reflective of an individual’s intentions. Among criminal justice-involved populations, several studies have found self-prediction to be a useful risk assessment tool. However, limited research has examined how self-prediction may be applied in the treatment of offenders. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the predictive relationship between self-prediction, personal responsibility, treatment hours, and treatment needs. A secondary data analysis of a sample of 96 incarcerated male sex offenders was conducted to determine (i) whether there is a correlation between self-prediction, responsibility, treatment hours, and treatment needs as measured by the Sex Offender Treatment Intervention and Progress Scale, (ii) whether self-prediction and personal responsibility statistically predict the treatment needs of sexual offenders, and (iii) to examine whether this relationship is moderated by the number of treatment hours received. Results indicated that treatment hours and treatment needs were significantly negatively correlated. Self-prediction and personal responsibility did not significantly predict treatment needs. Regression models indicated that treatment hours were significantly predictive of treatment needs, though support for its moderating effect was not found. The results of this study, along with limitations and implications for future directions are discussed.