Rapport Features Moderate Treatment Readiness of Incarcerated Male Sex Offenders After Forensic Risk and Needs Assessment Interviews

ABSTRACT

Background

Forensic risk and needs assessment interviews are commonly conducted for incarcerated sex offenders to inform treatment planning. Despite strong evidence showing the positive influence of rapport-based investigative interviews on sex offenders’ cooperation, disclosure and confession, the impact of rapport-based interviews on treatment readiness has yet to be examined.

Aims

As rapport features are mostly addressed in offender treatment and less in pre-treatment assessments, this study aimed to examine the influence of perceived rapport features and personal factors on treatment readiness of incarcerated sex offenders after forensic risk and needs assessment interviews. We hypothesised that sex offenders’ perceived rapport levels of the interviewers and personal factors significantly moderate positive change in their treatment readiness after the interviews.

Methods

Incarcerated male sex offenders (n = 80) participated in interviews conducted by trained correctional professionals (n = 33). Treatment readiness ratings (pre- and post-interview) and rapport features ratings (post-interview) were collected from the sex offenders using pen and paper questionnaires. Personal data of interviewers and sex offenders were obtained from prison records and case files.

Results

All ratings of rapport features (expertise, trust/respect, connected flow, cultural similarity, and attentiveness) and sex offending risk level (moderate and high) significantly moderated the change in treatment readiness of sex offenders after the interview.

Conclusion

Rapport formed during forensic risk and needs assessment interviews can positively influence the treatment readiness of moderate and high risk sex offenders. Results suggest that correctional agencies may implement policies and training to apply rapport-based interviewing techniques during forensic risk and needs assessment interviews to increase the likelihood of sex offenders starting and engaging in treatment.