The abstinence violation effect in child molesters

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Criminology
• Forensic Psychology

Background:

• The abstinence violation effect (AVE) is a key construct in understanding relapse.
• Empirical support for the AVE construct is established.
• Understanding AVE in specific populations, like incarcerated child molesters, is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the reformulation of the abstinence violation effect (AVE).
• To assess the empirical support for the AVE construct in incarcerated male child molesters.
• To examine emotional and attributional changes during high-risk, lapse, and relapse stages.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six incarcerated male child molesters participated.
• Participants completed the Differential Emotions Scale and Attributional Dimension Scale.
• Assessments occurred at high-risk, lapse, and relapse points during an audiotaped offense chain description.

Main Results:

• Eighteen participants experienced AVE at relapse, 7 at lapse.
• Significant increases in negative emotions (disgust, hostility, fear, shame, anger) and decreases in interest were observed during relapse.
• The AVE group reported higher uncontrollability and stability scores, with lower joy and surprise.
• No significant differences in attributional dimensions were found across the relapse process.

Conclusions:

• The AVE is associated with heightened negative emotions and specific attributional styles (uncontrollability, stability) in incarcerated child molesters.
• These findings have significant implications for clinical practice and treatment strategies.
• Further research can refine interventions based on the AVE in this population.