Evidence for the Efficacy of Self-Report in Predicting Nonviolent and Violent Criminal Recidivism

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Abstract
Self-report instruments have not been favored in the prediction of criminal recidivism. The present study compared the predictive accuracy of a self-report instrument (Self-Appraisal Questionnaire) with the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised, General Statistical Information on Recidivism, and the Violent Risk Appraisal Guide. The sample consisted of incarcerated males(N=78) who were followed for 2 years following release. Of the four risk prediction instruments, the Self-Appraisal Questionnaire was statistically equivalent in predicting nonviolent and violent recidivism. These results suggest that a self-report instrument can predict recidivism.