| This study focuses on acquiring a better understanding of violent offending behavior by examining the personality traits and characteristics, psychological functioning, and personal experiences of individuals who are serving time in prison for at least one violent offense. This study uses the MMPI-2-RF and seeks to determine if violent offenders will produce profiles consistent with previous research using the MMPI-2. Participants include male and female offenders incarcerated in medium and maximum-security state prisons within the mid-western region of the United States. Each participant was administered the MMPI-2-RF and a thorough survey asking questions related to the offenders' life. Results yielded some consistent and some contrasting findings on MMPI-2-RF scales. Other interesting common personality traits and risk factors were identified, including employment status, substance abuse, history of victimization, and history of witnessed violence. It is hoped that results from this study can be used to better improve community and correctional programming and services, and to increase awareness regarding the impact of the cycle of violence. |
