The Relationship between Psychopathic Personality Traits and Change Readiness among an Offender Sample

• In Event: Elucidating the Mechanisms of Reentry

Abstract

To date, little research has been done concerning the relationship between psychopathy and levels of readiness in regards to behavioral changes. Prior research has often examined the relationship between psychopathy and treatment outcomes, but has hardly considered the influence it may have on the desire to make positive behavioral changes before treatment. By using the Elucidating the Mechanisms of Reentry data, a sample of N = 70 convicted offenders reentering the community, this study intends to determine if there is a relationship between psychopathy and the different levels of change readiness (i.e. need recognition, action, social bonds/social capital, human agency, forethought, reflexivity, and self-efficacy) among recently released offenders. In so doing, it will not only contribute to the depth of literature concerning psychopathy and treatment, but results may also yield potential implications for the structure and utilization of reentry programs and interventions for this population.

Authors

• Christine Galvan Salcido, University of Texas at San Antonio

• James V. Ray, University of Central Florida

• Michael S Caudy, University of Central Florida

• Jill Viglione, University of Central Florida

• Rebecca J Walter, University of Texas at San Antonio