The Criminal Sentiments Scale: predictive validity in a sample of violent and sex offenders

This study investigated the predictive validity of the Criminal Sentiments Scale (CSS: Gendreau, Grant, Leipciger, & Collins, 1979) within a sample of violent and sex offenders using conviction and failure on conditional release as the criterion variables. The CSS was completed by 130 male offenders (65 sex offenders and 65 violent offenders) commencing a sentence of greater than two years in a Canadian federal institution. Average time at risk for the sample was 16 months. Arrest and conviction rates for violent offenders and sex offenders were 24.6% and 13.8% respectively, overall failure on release resulting in reincarceration was 41.5% and 18.5% respectively. The results showed no relationship between the CSS and recidivism or release failure. Implications for clinical use among this population of offenders are discussed.