The relationship between attachment dimensions and emotion regulation in individuals who have committed sexual crimes |
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Authors: | Melissa D Grady Joseph J Shields |
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Institution: | School of Social Work, National Catholic School of Social Service, Catholic University, Washington, DC, USA |
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Abstract: | Using attachment theory as an explanatory theory for sexual offending, this cross-sectional study examined the relationship between attachment and emotion regulation capacities utilising data that were collected from 59 incarcerated adult male sex offenders. Attachment dimensions were measured using the Relationship Scales Questionnaire and the Adult Attachment Survey and emotion regulation capacities were measured using the Difficulties with Emotion Regulation Scale. Findings indicated subjects who were more anxiously attached demonstrated more deficits in emotion regulation. Implications for practice and research are discussed. |
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Keywords: | Sexual offenders attachment theory emotion regulation risk factors |
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