Predictive Validity of the Domestic Violence Screening Assessment

• In Event: Trajectories of Violence Exposure: Risk, Contact, and Consequences

Abstract

Domestic violence risk assessment tools were first established in the 1990’s for the purpose of guiding criminal justice, social service, and health practitioners in predicting, targeting, and intervening with high-risk offenders. These tools are intended to provide reliable and valid measures of re-offending risk and to increase the safety of victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). The main goal of this research is to determine the validity of the Domestic Violence Screening Assessment (DVSA) tool in predicting IPV recidivism. The results can assist practitioners with revising risk assessment tools, guiding field interventions, and increasing safety for IPV victims. Improving the ability to prioritize offender management also has the potential to increase the efficiency of supervision officers while also addressing public safety concerns. This is paramount given the under-resourced community corrections climate. 

Authors

• Carrie Cook, Georgia College & State University

• Sharon Chafin, South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole & Pardon Services

• Saskia Santos, South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole & Pardon Services