Developed Specifically for Domestic Violence Offender
Evaluation
The Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI) is designed specifically for domestic violence
offender assessment. The DVI evaluates violence
(lethality) potential,
assesses control issues, quantifies substance (alcohol and other drugs) abuse and
measures stress coping abilities. The DVI has 155 items and takes 30 minutes to complete. The
DVI has six measures (scales):
1.
Truthfulness Scale,
2. Violence (Lethality) Scale, 3. Control Scale,
4. Alcohol Scale, 5. Drugs Scale
and 6.
Stress Coping Abilities Scale.
APPLICATIONS
** Domestic Violence Inventory
**
Assessment of adults accused or
convicted of domestic violence.
In clinics, counseling, treatment
agencies and service provider offices.
Adult courts, pretrial and
presentence investigations.
Domestic violence offender screening,
assessment and evaluation.
Adult probation departments and
community corrections.
Six Scales (measures)
The six Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI) scales are
described as follows:
Truthfulness Scale:
Measures how truthful the client was while completing the test. It
identifies denial, guardedness, problem minimization and faking. It
identifies faking good.
Violence (Lethality)
Scale: Measures the use of force to injure, damage or destroy.
This scale identifies people that are a danger to themselves and others.
Within the context of domestic violence, the terms violence and domestic
violence are used interchangeably.
Control Scale:
Measures a person's need to control others. In social psychology, control is
often a synonym for power and influence. Control refers to the process of
regulating, restraining or controlling others. Controlling behaviors include
swearing, intimidation, pushing, hitting and battering.
Alcohol Scale:
Measures the magnitude of alcohol use and abuse. Alcohol refers to beer,
wine and other liquors. Alcohol is all too often involved in domestic
violence.
Drugs Scale: Measures drug use and the
severity of abuse. Drugs refer to marijuana, crack, cocaine, amphetamines,
barbiturates and heroin. Illicit drugs are often involved in domestic
violence-related substance abuse.
Stress Coping Abilities
Scale: Measures a person's ability to cope with stress,
anxiety and pressure. Stress exacerbates mental health symptomatology. This
scale is a non-introversive screen for established (diagnosable) emotional
and mental health problems.
* * * * *
The DVI assesses attitudes and behaviors yielding a
domestic violence offender profile. Paper-pencil test administration takes on
average 30 minutes, and tests are computer-scored on-site. Reports are printed
within 2½ minutes. The DVI was developed specifically for domestic violence
evaluation. It is much more than just another alcohol or drug test;
consequently, it measures important behaviors missed by other tests.
"Appropriate for Misdemeanor and Felony
Offenders"
Why Use the Domestic Violence Inventory?
Domestic violence crime rates have risen across the
U.S. These statistics underscore the abhorrent effects of domestic violence
and the need for meaningful and accurate assessment. Early detection of domestic violence
perpetrators facilitates quicker intervention and
treatment.
This type of information also helps in deciding upon levels of
probation supervision, counseling, treatment and incarceration alternatives.
The DVI is designed to meet these needs.
At one sitting of approximately 30 minutes' duration,
staff can acquire a vast amount of domestic violence perpetrator information,
which includes acting out (violence) propensity, controlling tendencies,
substance abuse and stress coping abilities. Early problem identification
facilitates timely intervention and improved outcome results.
Advantages of
Screening
Screening or assessment instruments filter out
individuals with serious problems that may require referral for a more
comprehensive evaluation and/or treatment. This filtering system works as
follows:
DVI RISK RANGES
Risk Category
Risk Range Percentile
Total Percentage
Low Risk
0 - 39%
39%
Medium Risk
40 - 69%
30%
Problem Risk
70 - 89%
20%
Severe Problem
90 -100%
11%
Reference to the above table shows that a problem is
not identified until a scale score is at the 70th percentile or higher. These risk range
percentiles are based upon over 65,000 people who have taken the Domestic
Violence Inventory. This procedure is fair and avoids extremes, i.e.,
over-identification and under-identification of problems and risk.
A state, department or agency's policy might refer
clients with identified problems for further evaluation, intervention or
treatment services. In this case, 31% of the people screened (Problem Risk and
Severe Risk) would be referred. Or, policy might only refer people with
serious problems (Severe Problem, 11%) for additional services. In these
examples, 69% or 89% (contingent upon adopted policy) of the people screened
would not be referred for additional (and expensive)
services.
Budgetary savings (dollars) would be
large with no compromises in clients receiving appropriate evaluation and/or
treatment services. Indeed, more offenders would receive help.
Without a screening program, there is usually more risk of over or
under-utilization of additional professional services.
DVI scales identify the areas they screen. And, these
scales (measures) are: 1. Truthfulness Scale, 2. Violence (Lethality)
Scale, 3.
Control Scale, 4. Alcohol Scale, 5.
Drugs Scale and
6.
Stress Coping Abilities Scale.
Reports
In brief, DVI reports summarize the respondent's
self-report history, explain what attained scale scores mean and offer
specific score-related recommendations. Within 2½ minutes of test data entry,
automated (computer-scored) 3-page reports are printed on-site. These reports
summarize a lot of information in an easily understood format. For example,
reports include a DVI profile (graph), which summarizes scale scores at a
glance. Also included are attained scale scores, an explanation of what each
score means and specific score-related recommendations. In addition,
significant items (direct admissions) are highlighted, and answers to a
built-in interview (last sequence of items) are presented. Emphasis is placed
on having meaningful reports that are helpful and easily understood.
To go directly to the example DVI report, click on the
DVI Report link. After reviewing the
report, you can return to this section by clicking on the "Return to DVI
Reports Section" link.
"Demonstrated Reliability, Validity and
Accuracy"
Reliability, Validity and Accuracy
The DVI has a proprietary built-in database that
insures inclusion of all administered tests in a confidential (no names)
manner. Over 65,000 DVI tests' data are represented in the DVI database. These
reliability, validity and accuracy statistics are reported in the document
titled "DVI: An Inventory of Scientific Findings." Annual database analysis
further demonstrates that DVI scales have very high reliability coefficients
with minimum interscale correlations. For example, internal consistencies
(alpha coefficients) for DVI scales are reported in the following table for
some domestic violence offenders (N=4,389) screened in the year 2002. This is
only one among many year 2002 samples.
RELIABILITY OF THE DVI (N=4,389,
2002)
DVI Scales
Alpha Coefficient
Significance Level
Truthfulness
.88
p<.001
Violence
(Lethality)
.90
p<.001
Control
.88
p<.001
Alcohol
.93
p<.001
Drugs
.91
p<.001
Stress
Coping Abilities
.93
p<.001
All DVI scales have alpha coefficients well above the
professionally accepted standard of .75 and are highly reliable. All alpha
coefficients are significant at the p<.001 level.
DVI research extends over 10 years. Many studies have
been conducted on thousands of domestic violence perpetrators using several
validation methods. Early studies used criterion measures and were validated
with other tests, e.g., Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)
L-Scale and F-Scale, 16PF, MMPI MacAndrews Scale, MMPI Psychopathic Deviate,
Taylor-Manifest Anxiety Scale, MMPI Depression Scale, Treatment Intervention
Inventory, SAQ-Adult Probation III, MMPI Manifest Hostility Scale, etc.
The
DVI-Short Form scales correlate highly significantly with DVI scale
scores.
DVI-SHORT FORM CORRELATION COEFFICIENTS (N = 7,943, 2002)
Scales:
Standard
DVI
Truthfulness
r
=.96
Alcohol
r
=.98
Control
r
=.97
Drugs
r
=.97
Violence
r =.95
Stress Coping Abilities
r
=.91
DVI
and DVI-Short Form comparable scale
correlations
Correlation coefficients vary from zero to 1, where
zero represents no relationship and 1 means the two variables are perfectly
related. In the above table, DVI-Short Form scale items were correlated
against the DVI scales in this sample of DVI data. DVI-Short Form scales are
subsets of DVI scales (same items are in both tests), and they are shown to be
highly correlated with the DVI scales. For domestic violence offender
assessment, test users now have a choice: DVI or DVI-Short Form.
Much of this research is summarized in the document
"DVI: An Inventory of Scientific Findings." Subsequently, many discriminant
and predictive validity database analysis-based studies support DVI
reliability, validity and accuracy. To review a DVI research study, click on
the DVI Research Study link. This
link is also provided at the end of this webpage.
Domestic Violence Inventory norms are based on over
65,000 male and female respondents. Separate norms are available for gender
(male and female) and ethnicity (Caucasian, Black and Hispanic). This database
research is ongoing.
All DVI Short Form scales correlate significantly with
corresponding DVI scales. The Short Form contains the same six measures or
scales in the "standard" DVI. We refer to the longer original DVI as the
"standard test." If interested in the DVI Short Form, you can click on the
following link to go to the DVI-Short Form webpage.
Research Publication:
Nebraska Probation Department's Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP)
selection process was automated with Risk & Needs tests. These tests
include the Driver Risk Inventory-II, SAQ-Adult Probation III, Domestic
Violence Inventory and the ACDI-Corrections Version II. This research is
reported in Edward C. Birkel and David L. Wegner's article (2000). "Accurate
Intensive Supervision Probation Selection: Revisited." American
Probation and Parole Association, Perspectives, Vol. 24, #4 Fall, pp. 18-21.
To read this article click on the Perspectives Research Article
link.
Fairness goes beyond reliability and
validity. The term applies to test accuracy for demographic groups like gender
and ethnicity. DVI scoring equations are adjusted, as warranted, on an annual
basis to insure fairness.
Software
The DVI is available on Windows diskettes. Windows
diskettes require a one-time computer setup procedure after which DVI data
diskettes are used to score and print reports. Training manuals are provided,
and new test users can be walked through these scoring procedures over Risk
& Needs Assessment, Inc.'s (Risk & Needs') telephone line.
Proprietary DVI diskettes contain 25 or 50 test
applications. These 3½" diskettes score, interpret and print reports on-site.
Once a DVI account is established, ordered diskettes are mailed to users.
Approximately 97% of orders are filled and mailed back to users the same day.
When all test applications are used, diskettes are returned to Risk &
Needs where the demographics (e.g., gender, ethnicity) and test data are
downloaded into the DVI database for subsequent database analysis.
No personal information, names, social security
numbers, etc. are ever downloaded into any test database.
Delete Names.The proprietary "delete names" program is
activated by the test user with a few keystrokes to delete all respondent
names from diskettes before they are returned to Risk & Needs. Deleting
all respondent names insures protection of each respondent's confidentiality
and compliance with HIPAA (federal regulation 45 C.F.R. 164.501).
Database
The DVI system contains a proprietary built-in
database. Earlier, it was noted that all DVI used diskettes are returned to
Risk & Needs, and the test data is downloaded into the DVI database.
This expanding database allows ongoing research and testing program summary
features that were not possible before. Ongoing research ensures quality
control. Annual testing program summaries provide for program self
evaluation.
After downloading test data returned diskettes are
destroyed.
Built-in Database
The DVI permits ongoing research and annual program
summary -- at no additional cost. As discussed earlier, when the 25 or 50 test
diskettes are used, used diskettes are returned to Risk & Needs, checked
for viruses and downloaded into the expanding DVI database. Advantages of this
proprietary database are many and include database (research) analysis and
Annual Summary
Reports.
Returned diskettes can be summarized on a state,
department or agency basis -- at no additional cost to users. Annual summary
reports provide information that permits testing program review. An example
summary report can be reviewed by clicking on this Annual Summary Reports link.
In summary, all returned DVI diskettes' test data is
centrally filed at Risk & Needs' offices in the DVI database. This
database has many advantages. Database analysis permits ongoing cost efficient
research that includes scale alpha coefficients, ANOVA, frequency
distributions, correlations, cross-tab statistics along with reliability,
validity and accuracy determinations. A DVI research study can be reviewed by
clicking on the DVI Research Study link.
Annual Summary
Reports
Risk & Needs can access each of its tests'
built-in databases for statistical analysis and summarization of all tests
administered in a year. Annual Summary Reports are prepared for state,
department, agency and even some individual providers -- at no cost to them.
These reports are provided as a professional courtesy to large volume test
users. Summary reports include demographics, court-history when relevant, and
test statistics (reliability, validity and accuracy). Has anyone offered to
summarize your testing program? Annually? At no additional cost to you?
Minimum testing volume for annual reports is 350 tests. There is no maximum
limit. Risk & Needs' annual reports range in size from 350 tests to over
55,000 tests annually. An example Annual Summary Report can be viewed by
clicking on this Annual Summary Reports link.
Staff member
input:
The DVI is to be used in conjunction with experienced staff judgment.
When available, court and adjustment records should be reviewed, as they can
contain important information not provided or incorrectly provided by the
respondent. Experienced staff should also interview the client. For these
reasons, the following statement is contained in each DVI report: "Domestic
Violence Inventory results are confidential and should be considered working
hypotheses. No diagnosis or decision should be based solely upon these
results. These test results are to be used in conjunction with experienced
staff judgment and review of available records."
Why develop the Domestic
Violence Inventory?
Domestic violence is an all too frequent serious
crime. It varies in severity from swearing or pushing to battering. "Domestic
violence" is a complex term that refers to verbal, emotional or physical
injury within a family or household relationship. Contributing factors are
many and include substance (alcohol and other drugs) abuse, violence
(lethality) propensity, control issues and impaired stress coping abilities.
The DVI evaluates all of these important areas of inquiry.
How do you know if the domestic
violence offender is lying? The DVI contains a Truthfulness Scale that
determines how truthful the respondent was while completing the test. This
scale identifies problem minimization and detects faking. And, the DVI doesn't
stop there. Error of measurement due to untruthfulness is measured for each
scale and reported as Truth-Corrected scores. Truth-Corrected scores reveal
what the respondent is trying to hide. Truth-Corrected scores are more
accurate than raw scores.
Unique Domestic Violence
Inventory Features
The Truthfulness Scale
measures how truthful the respondent was while completing the DVI. This scale
identifies denial, problem minimization and faking. Many domestic violence
offenders attempt to minimize their problems. The DVI Truthfulness Scale has
been validated with other tests, truthfulness studies and the Minnesota
Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) L and F-Scales. It consists of a
number of items that most people agree or disagree with. This important scale
has been demonstrated to be reliable, valid and accurate. Much of this
research is reported in the document titled "DVI: An Inventory of Scientific
Findings." By clicking on the DVI Research Study link you
can review each scales reliability and validity.
"More Than Just Another Alcohol or Drug Test"
Truth-Corrected
Scores have proven to be important in enhancing
assessment accuracy. This proprietary truth correction program is comparable
to the MMPI K-Scale correction methodology. The DVI Truthfulness Scale has
been correlated with the other five DVI scales. The Truth Correction equation
then converts raw scores to Truth-Corrected scores. Raw scores reflect what
the respondent wants you to know. Truth-Corrected scores reveal what the
respondent is trying to hide. Truth-Corrected scores are more accurate than
raw scores.
"Includes a Violence (Lethality) Scale"
The Violence Scale
measures the respondent's propensity for using force to injure, damage or
destroy. It identifies the respondent's danger to self and others. The growing
awareness of violence in our society resulted in the inclusion of the Violence
(Lethality) Scale in the DVI. When
screening violence or lethality potential is important, we recommend you use
the DVI. Within the context of domestic violence, the terms violence and
domestic violence are used interchangeably.
Control Scale. Control in psychoanalytic
theory is the process of restraining or regulating impulses. In social
psychology, control is often a synonym of power or influence. In domestic
violence, control refers to the process of restraining, regulating or
controlling others. Controlling behaviors include, but are not limited to,
pushing, swearing, intimidation and hitting. The concept of control has become
an important construct in domestic violence research. Consequently, the
Control Scale was added to the DVI in 1996. The inclusion of the Control Scale
is an example of the DVI being designed specifically to assess domestic
violence perpetrators. The Control Scale adds greatly to our assessment and
understanding of domestic violence perpetrators. This important area of
inquiry is overlooked by other domestic violence tests.
Substance Abuse Screening is
important because alcohol and/or drug use is often associated with domestic
violence. The Alcohol Scale identifies alcohol use and measures the severity
of abuse. Similarly, the Drugs Scale identifies illicit drug use and measures
the severity of abuse.
The Stress Coping Abilities
Scale measures how well the respondent handles tension, stress
and pressure. This scale goes beyond establishing whether or not the
respondent is experiencing stress. It determines how well the respondent
handles or copes with stress. Stress exacerbates emotional and mental health
symptoms. Consequently, this scale is a non-introversive way to screen
established (diagnosable) mental health problems. A respondent scoring at or
above the 90th percentile on the Stress Coping
Abilities Scale should be referred to a certified/licensed mental health
professional for a more comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis, as warranted.
This important area of inquiry is missed by other domestic violence tests.
More than just another alcohol or
drug test: In addition to alcohol and drugs, the DVI assesses
other important areas of inquiry like truthfulness, violence (lethality),
control issues and stress coping abilities. The DVI is designed specifically
for domestic violence perpetrators.
Three ways to give the
DVI: The DVI can
be administered in three different ways: 1. Paper-pencil test booklet format.
This is the most popular testing procedure. English and Spanish test booklets
are available. 2. The DVI can be given directly on the computer screen. And,
3. Human voice audio involves a computer and a headset. The respondent uses
the up-down arrow keys. As the respondent goes from question to answer with
the arrow key, that question or answer is highlighted on the monitor (screen)
and simultaneously read to the respondent. These three test administration
modes are discussed in the DVI: Orientation and Training Manual. Each test
administration has advantages and some limitations. Risk & Needs offers
these three test administration modes so test users can select the test
administration mode that is best suited to their needs.
Reading impaired
assessment:Reading
impaired respondents represent 20+ percent of the domestic violence
perpetrators tested. This represents a serious problem to other domestic
violence tests. In contrast, Risk & Needs has developed a proprietary
alternative for reading impaired assessment, which is termed "human voice
audio."
Human Voice Audio:Human Voice Audio is
available in English and Spanish. It helps resolve many reading and cultural
difference issues. A person's passive vocabulary is often greater than their
active (spoken) vocabulary. Hearing items read out loud often helps reduce
cultural and communication problems. As discussed earlier, "human voice audio"
test presentation requires a computer, earphones and simple instructions
regarding how to operate the up-down arrow keys located on the computer
keyboard. Without this "human voice audio" option, a domestic violence
perpetrator testing program could be limited.
Confidentiality:Risk & Needs encourages test users to
delete respondent names from diskettes before they are returned to Risk & Needs. This proprietary name deletion procedure involves a few
keystrokes. Once respondent names are deleted, they are gone and cannot be
retrieved. Deleting names does not delete demographics or test data, which is
downloaded into the DVI database for subsequent analysis. This procedure
insures client confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA (federal regulation
45 C.F.R. 164.501).
Test Data Input
Verification:
This proprietary program allows the person that inputs test data from
the answer sheet into the computer to verify the accuracy of their data input.
In brief, test data is input twice, and any inconsistencies between the first
and second data entries are highlighted until corrected. When the first and
second data entries match or are the same, the staff person may continue. Use
of this data input verification procedure is optional, yet strongly
recommended by Risk & Needs.
Inventory of Scientific
Findings: Much
of the DVI research has been gathered together in one document titled "DVI: An
Inventory of Scientific Findings." This document summarizes DVI research
chronologically - as the studies were completed.
This innovative chronological reporting format was
established largely because of the DVI database, which permits annual database
analysis of all tests administered that year. It also allows the reader to
observe the evolution of the DVI into its current state-of-the-art
position.
Staff Training: Risk
& Needs' staff are available to participate in DVI training programs
scheduled by test users in the United States. Large departments/agencies or
statewide programs often are interested in DVI training. Sometimes, smaller
agencies or departments get together for a joint training session on the DVI.
Risk & Needs gives attendees certificates attesting to their DVI
training.
Staff training is also provided on Fridays at Risk & Needs' Phoenix offices from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or from 1:30 p.m.
to 4:30 p.m. These training sessions are free. To participate, contact Risk
& Needs at least ten days in advance. Participation is on a first call,
first scheduled basis.
The DVI Short Form
consists of 76 items and takes 15 to 20 minutes to complete. The Short Form
contains the same six measures or scales in the "standard" DVI. We refer to
the longer original DVI as the "standard test." The DVI was modified or
shortened. Short Form scales correlate highly significantly with standard DVI
scales. These correlation coefficients are: Truthfulness Scale (r = .96),
Alcohol Scale (r = .98), Control Scale (r = .97), Drugs Scale (r = .97),
Violence (Lethality) Scale (r = .95) and Stress Coping Abilities Scale (r =
.91). These coefficients are based on 4,389 domestic violence offenders
evaluated in 2002. Click on the following DVI-Short Form link to go to the
DVI-Short Form webpage.
"Adult, Juvenile and Outcome Tests"
Domestic Violence
Inventory-Juvenile: The Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI) has
been modified for juvenile (14 to 18 years) assessment. The juvenile version
has the acronym DVI-Juvenile. The DVI-Juvenile is designed for juveniles
accused or convicted of domestic violence. The DVI-Juvenile is a 149-item
self-report test that can be completed in 30 minutes. The DVI-Juvenile can be
scored with reports printed on-site within 2½ minutes. The DVI-Juvenile has
the same six scales as the DVI. These include: 1. Truthfulness Scale, 2.
Violence (Lethality) Scale, 3. Control Scale, 4. Alcohol Scale, 5. Drugs Scale
and 6. Stress Coping Abilities Scale. The DVI-Juvenile has the unique features
discussed for the DVI. Click on the following DVI-Juvenile link to go to DVI-Juvenile
webpage. Additional DVI-Juvenile information can be provided upon request.
Risk & Needs' telephone number is (602) 234-3506.
DVI Pre-Post: The
Domestic Violence Inventory has been modified so that it can be used for
pretest-posttest outcome comparison. After the DVI Pretest is administered,
the client undergoes some form of intervention (e.g., counseling or
treatment). Upon completion of the intervention (e.g., counseling or
treatment) program, the client is administered the DVI Posttest.
Each time the DVI Pre-Post is administered, it
generates an automated (computer-scored) report, which summarizes the results
of that test's administration. Moreover, when the posttest is administered,
the DVI Pre-Post program automatically compares pretest and posttest scale
scores and summarizes these results in a "comparison report." This comparison
report is an objective comparison of pretest and posttest scores.
Consequently, these outcome measures show whether the client has improved,
stayed the same or gotten worse.
DVI Pre -
Post
Pre-Post scales include: 1. Truthfulness Scale, 2.
Violence (Lethality) Scale, 3. Control Scale, 4. Alcohol Scale, 5. Drugs Scale
and 6. Stress Coping Abilities Scale. DVI Pre-Post scales are designed so that
scale scores reflect the here-and-now. Scale score comparisons can improve,
stay the same or get worse. The DVI Pre-Post provides objective outcome
measures. It provides an objective comparison of DVI pretest and posttest
results.
The DVI Pre-Post has 147 items and on average takes 30
minutes to complete. It contains variations of the standard DVI scales.
Although derived from the DVI, this test has no history questions and
objectively compares here-and-now pretest and posttest scores. Click on the
following DVI Pre-Post link to go to the DVI
Pre-Post webpage.
* * * * *
"State-of-the-art Domestic Violence
Assessment"
"The Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI) was
administered to 226 adult domestic violence offenders. The six scales of the
DVI and their reliability coefficients are Truthfulness (.87), Control (.83),
Violence (.90), Alcohol (.95), Drugs (.92) and Stress Coping Abilities (.93).
The prediction of DVI Violence Scale (Multiple R=.938, p<.001) was the
highest of all the predictions and was extremely accurate . . . These results
strongly support the reliability, validity and accuracy of the DVI."
Edward
C. Birkel & David L. Wegner Accurate Intensive
Supervision Probation Selection Perspectives, Volume 24, Number 4, Fall 2000
"The Santa Fe Municipal Court drug and alcohol
screening program, Teen Court and the Drug Court Clinic all use the DVI and
most recently the DQ instrument. These instruments are high utility; easy to
administer; score and interpret. We screen nearly 200 persons per month, both
Spanish and English speaking. Over the past two years we have found these
instruments to be very reliable in that the post-test interview generally
corroborates test findings . . . I would recommend this company and all of
their instruments, without reservation."
Deborah Klein, Ph.D. City of
Santa Fe, New Mexico Santa Fe Municipal Court
"Our agency is currently using the Domestic Violence
Inventory with our clients to assist us in better serving our clients. I
personally have used other inventories in the past and have found the DVI to
be easy to understand and helpful because it also provides possible
intervention and recommendations. The DVI has helped us in being able to
confront and deal with issues that usually take clients a long time to discuss
with their counselor." Continuing, "The questionnaire format is
non-intimidating for clients and the language is easy to understand. The
procedure to grade the inventory is also easy and not time consuming."
Truth
or Consequences, New Mexico Domestic Abuse
Intervention Center
"The DVI has enhanced our ability to make informed
case management decisions in a timely manner. Members of our judiciary and
public prosecution are now familiar with this test and in some instance have
requested assessments prior to sentencing . . . Given our experience to date,
we are more than pleased to recommend the DVI to criminal justice
professionals who are interested in quality, automated screening and
assessment tests."
Nova
Scotia Department of Justice, Correctional
Services
"I am very impressed with the DVI and have gotten
positive feedback from our group instructor as well. The test is very easy to
administer and very easy to score. I like the way it is laid out - the
Recommendations given in each scale, the Treatment Needs and the self-reported
sections are all very helpful. When compared to the assessment instrument we
have been using, I think the DVI gives us a much more accurate picture of the
man being tested."
DeKalb
County Court Services DeKalb Community Service
Board
"This tool (DVI) has assisted our substance abuse
screening staff with making decisions about therapeutic recommendations to the
referring court . . . We are pleased with the Domestic Violence
Inventory."
Human
Resources Associates, Inc.
Epilogue
The Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI) was
conceptualized after years of evaluating people accused or convicted of
domestic violence for the courts, attorneys, probation and corrections
departments as well as counseling and treatment agencies. Years of
psychometric research followed.
The goal from the beginning has been to develop a
practical, helpful and psychometrically sound instrument. Practical in the
sense that it can be completed in a reasonable amount of time, helpful in
terms of providing useful information to people working with domestic violence
perpetrators, and psychometrically sound with regards to reliability, validity
and accuracy.
Risk & Needs' staff are proud of the DVI and
believe we have successfully achieved the goals set forth above, i.e., a
practical, helpful and psychometrically sound test.
Now, our mission is to maintain these objectives while
sustaining the DVI's state-of-the-art reputation. We are aided in these
efforts by the DVI's built-in database, which facilitates ongoing
research.
Hopefully, this dialogue explains why the Domestic
Violence Inventory (DVI) is one of the very few tests designed specifically
for domestic violence perpetrator assessment.
In conclusion, we know that DVI user feedback is
important. User feedback has contributed to the design (e.g., 6 scales) and
updation (e.g., Control Scale) of the DVI. We want to assure DVI users that we
will listen. We appreciate DVI user feedback whether it be by phone, e-mail or
letter.
Test Unit Fee (Cost):
DVI cost information can be reviewed by clicking on the Test Unit Fee
(Cost) link. There is only the one cost or charge, and that is the test
unit fee. Everything else is included at no additional cost to the test user.
This includes test booklets, answer sheets, training manuals, upgrades,
ongoing database research, annual summary testing reports, staff training, and
support services. Do not be misled by some test publishers' à la carte pricing
like separate costs for each test administration as well as for each of the
test-related items listed above. Instead of asking for the test administration
cost, ask for the total cost involved in using a test. We believe Risk & Needs' one test unit fee is very affordable.
Free Examination
Kit
A 1-test demo diskette is available on a 30-day cost
free basis. Demo diskettes are in Windows format. Examination kits contain the
1-test demonstration diskette, Installation CD (with instructions), test
booklet and training manuals. Risk & Needs does want the demonstration
diskette and test booklet returned within 30 days. To request a free
examination kit, click on the Free
Examination Kit Request link.
"Additional Information Provided Upon
Request"
Support
Services
Risk & Needs provides a full range of support
services that include: Information dissemination (descriptive materials, demo
diskettes and staff presentations); Orders (97% returned on the same day
received); Test-Related Materials (no additional cost); Consultation &
Support of Research (free discussion, cooperation and DVI-related support);
Staff Training (manuals, high volume users and statewide programs on-site
presentations); First Time User (telephone walk-through available); Ongoing
Support (software and test-related); DVI Updates (no additional cost); and
Other (as long as it is test-related). Risk & Needs is committed to
providing DVI support services to interested parties and test users.
Selecting a Domestic
Violence Offender Assessment Instrument or
Test
If you are selecting a domestic violence offender
assessment instrument, the following Comparison Checklist should prove
helpful. This checklist itemizes important assessment and screening qualities.
The "Other" column represents any other test you might want to compare to the
Domestic Violence Inventory.
TEST COMPARISON CHECKLIST
COMPARISON CATEGORIES
DVI
Other
Designed
Specifically for Domestic Violence
Yes
Test
Reliability & Validity Research Provided
Yes
Test
Completed in 30 Minutes
Yes
On-Site
Reports within 3 Minutes
Yes
Truthfulness
Scale to Detect Faking
Yes
Truth-Corrected Scores for Accuracy
Yes
Three Test
Administration Options
Yes
1. Paper-Pencil (English and
Spanish)
Yes
2. On Computer Screen (English and
Spanish)
Yes
3. Human Voice Audio (English and
Spanish)
Yes
Delete Names
(confidentiality) Procedure
Yes
HIPAA (federal regulation)
Compliant
Yes
Test Data
Input Verification (accurate scoring)
Yes
Built-in
Database
Yes
Annual
Database Research (free)
Yes
Annual Test
Program Summary (free)
Yes
DVI-Short
Form
Yes
DVI-Juvenile
Yes
DVI Pre-Post
(outcome measures)
Yes
Specific
Scale Score-Related Recommendations
Yes
Alcohol and
Drugs Scales
Yes
Control
Scale
Yes
Violence
(Lethality) Scale
Yes
Stress
Coping Abilities Scale
Yes
Large
(65,000+) Research Database
Yes
Very
Affordable Test Unit Fee
Yes
Comprehensive Assessment (Six Scales)
Yes
Easily
Understood and Helpful Reports
Yes
ASAM
Compatible Recommendations
Yes
Staff
Training (Free)
Yes
Examination
Kits (Free)
Yes
"Several Levels of DVI Interpretation"
Domestic Violence Inventory
Interpretation
An example 3-page Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI)
report follows this discussion of DVI interpretation. It is provided as a
ready reference to augment this dialogue. There are several levels of DVI
interpretation ranging from viewing the DVI as a self-report to interpreting
scale elevations and scale interrelationships.
The following table is a starting point for
interpreting DVI scale scores.
SCALE RANGES
Risk
Category
Risk Range Percentile
Total Percentage
Low Risk
0 - 39%
39%
Medium Risk
40 - 69%
30%
Problem Risk
70 - 89%
20%
Severe Problem
90 - 100%
11%
A problem is not identified until a scale score is at
the 70th percentile or higher. Elevated scale
scores refer to percentile scores that are at or above the 70th percentile. Severe problems are identified by
scale scores at or above the 90th percentile.
Severe problems represent the highest 11 percent of respondents evaluated with
the DVI. The DVI has been normed on over 65,000 domestic violence offenders.
And, this normative sample continues to expand with each DVI test that is
administered.
Scale
Interpretation
1. Truthfulness Scale: Measures how truthful the respondent was while
completing the test. It identifies guarded and defensive people who attempt to
fake good. Scores at or below the 89th
percentile mean that all DVI scales are accurate. Scale scores in the 70th to 89th
percentile range are accurate because they have been Truth-Corrected. Scores
at or above the 90th percentile mean that all
DVI scales are inaccurate (invalid) because the respondent was overly guarded,
read things into test items that aren't there, was minimizing problems, or was
attempting to fake answers. Respondents with reading impairments might also
score in this 70th to 89th percentile scoring range. If not consciously
deceptive, respondents with elevated Truthfulness Scale scores are
uncooperative, fail to understand test items or have a need to appear in a
good light. The Truthfulness Scale score is important because it shows whether
or not the respondent answered DVI test items honestly. Truthfulness Scale
scores at or below the 89th percentile
indicate that all other DVI scale scores are accurate. One of the first things
to check when reviewing a DVI report is the Truthfulness Scale score. The
Truthfulness Scale can be interpreted independently. Truthfulness Scale scores
override all other DVI scale scores.
2. Violence (Lethality) Scale: Identifies respondents that are dangerous to
themselves and others. It is defined as the expression of rage and hostility
through physical force. Violence is aggression in its most extreme and
unacceptable form. Elevated scorers can be demanding, sensitive to perceived
criticism and are insightless about how they express their anger/hostility.
Severe Problem scorers should not be ignored as they are threatening, very
dangerous and at risk. A particularly unstable and perilous situation involves
an elevated Violence Scale with an elevated Alcohol Scale or Drugs Scale
score. The higher the elevation of these scale scores (e.g., Severe Problem
range) with the Violence Scale, the worse the prognosis. An elevated Stress
Coping Abilities Scale with an elevated Violence Scale score provides insight
regarding co-determinants and possible treatment recommendations. An elevated
Control Scale in combination with an elevated Violence Scale score suggests a
rigidly hostile characterological pattern. Loss of control results in punitive
consequences; whereas, lack of control is anxiety inducing. The Violence Scale
score can be interpreted independently or in combination with other DVI scale
scores.
"A popular Domestic Violence Assessment Instrument"
3. Control Scale: Control is a complex psychological term. Some
researchers are interested in the dynamics of controlling others. The DVI
Control Scale measures one's need to control others. In social psychology,
control is often a synonym for power or influence. Within the context of
domestic violence, control refers to the process of regulating, restraining or
controlling others. These controlling behaviors vary from normal (mild) to
pathological (severe). Control-related behavior pathology focuses on
exaggerated, distorted or extreme behaviors like swearing, pushing,
intimidation, hitting and even battering. Without getting into a discussion of
a variety of control theories, the construct "control" has become important in
understanding domestic violence. The significance of control is reflected in
domestic violence perpetrator's difficulty in giving up control and their
resistance to treatment.
An elevated (70th to
89th percentile) Control Scale score indicates
the presence of regulating, restraining and controlling behaviors. Scores in
the Severe Problem (90th to 100th percentile) range identify extreme and even
pathological controlling behaviors. Elevated Control Scale scorers have a need
to control others. Anything that interferes with this sense of control is
frustrating and can be threatening. These people often have a lot of friction
or conflict in their relationships.
An elevated Control Scale score with an elevated
Violence Scale score is usually a malignant sign. The height of these scale
scores is important. Scores in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th
percentile) range should not be ignored as they are indicative of a dangerous
person. Similarly, an elevated substance (Alcohol or Drugs Scale) abuse score
in conjunction with an elevated Control Scale score is problematic. Alcohol
and/or drug involvement can exacerbate control issues. An elevated Stress
Coping Abilities Scale score with an elevated Control Scale score may help in
understanding the respondent's situation. A person that doesn't handle stress
well is likely to experience symptom magnification. In summary, the Control
Scale can be interpreted independently or in conjunction with other DVI scale
scores.
4. Alcohol Scale: Measures alcohol use and the
severity of abuse. Alcohol refers to beer, wine and other liquor. An elevated
(70th to 89th
percentile) Alcohol Scale score is indicative of an emerging drinking problem.
An Alcohol Scale score in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th
percentile) range identifies serious drinking problems.
Since a history of alcohol problems could result in an
abstainer (current non-drinker) attaining a Low to Medium Risk score,
precautions have been built into the DVI to correctly identify "recovering
alcoholics." Several DVI items are printed in the "Significant Items" section
of the DVI report for quick reference. These alcohol items include the
following: admits drinking is a problem (item #31), admits drinking problem in
the past year (item #37), false indicates drinking problem (item #51), admits
has a drinking problem (item #79), "recovering alcoholic" (item #87),
describes seriousness of own drinking (item #147) and states own desire for
alcohol treatment (item #150). In addition, the Alcohol Scale risk range
paragraphs (printed for elevated scores) clearly state that the respondent may
be a "recovering alcoholic."
In intervention and treatment settings, the
respondent's Alcohol Scale score helps staff work through the respondent's
denial. Most people accept the objective and standardized Alcohol Scale score
as accurate and relevant in comparison to a person's subjective opinion. This
is particularly true when it is explained that elevated scores don't occur by
chance. The respondent must answer a definite pattern of alcohol-related
admissions for elevated scores to occur. And, scale scores are based on
thousands of respondents who have completed the DVI.
An elevated Alcohol Scale score in conjunction with
other elevated scores magnifies the severity of the other elevated scores. For
example, if you have a respondent with an elevated Violence Scale who also has
an elevated Alcohol Scale score, that person is even more dangerous when
drinking. In summary, the Alcohol Scale can be interpreted independently or in
conjunction with other elevated scores.
5. Drugs Scale: Measures illicit drug use and the
severity of abuse. Drugs refer to marijuana, cocaine, crack, ice,
amphetamines, barbiturates and heroin. These are illicit substances. An
elevated (70th to 89th percentile) Drugs Scale score is indicative of
an emerging drug problem. A Drugs Scale score in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th
percentile) range identifies serious illicit drug abusers.
A history of drug-related problems could result in an
abstainer (drug history, but not presently using drugs) attaining a Low to
Medium Risk score. Precautions have been built into the DVI to correctly
identify "recovering drug abusers." Several DVI items are printed in the
"Significant Items" section of the DVI report for easy reference. These items
include: increased tolerance in last year (item #29), admits has a drug
problem (item #39), used drugs within the last year (item #44), admits using
and abusing drugs (item #69), in treatment for a drug problem (item #93),
rates severity of own drug use (item #148) and states desire for drug
treatment (item #151). In addition, the elevated Drugs Scale paragraphs
clearly state the respondent may be a "recovering" drug abuser.
In intervention and treatment settings, the
respondent's Drugs Scale score helps staff work through client denial. And, an
elevated Drugs Scale score in conjunction with other elevated scale scores
magnifies the severity of the other elevated scores. For example, an elevated
Violence Scale in conjunction with an elevated Drugs Scale score increases the
severity and risk associated with the Violence Scale. In summary, the Drugs
Scale can be interpreted independently or in conjunction with other elevated
scales.
6. Stress Coping Abilities
Scale: Measures how well the respondent copes with stress. It is now
known that stress exacerbates symptoms of mental and emotional problems. Thus,
an elevated Stress Coping Abilities Scale score in conjunction with other
elevated DVI scale scores helps explain the respondent's situation. For
example, when a person doesn't handle stress well, other existing problems are
exacerbated. This problem augmentation applies to substance (alcohol and other
drugs) abuse, violence (lethality), control issues and stress-related
problems.
An elevated Stress Coping Abilities Scale score can
also exacerbate emotional and mental health symptomatology. When a Stress
Coping Abilities Scale score is in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th
percentile) range, it is likely that the respondent has a diagnosable mental
health problem. In these instances, referral to a certified/licensed mental
health professional is warranted to obtain a diagnosis, prognosis and
treatment plan. Lower elevated scores suggest less intensive referral
alternatives like a stress management program. In summary, the Stress Coping
Abilities Scale can be interpreted independently or in conjunction with other
elevated scales.
* * * * *
In conclusion, it was noted that there are several
levels of DVI interpretation ranging from viewing the DVI as a self-report to
interpreting scale elevations and interrelationships. Scale scores can also be
interpreted individually. Staff can then put DVI findings within the context
of the respondent's life and domestic violence situation.
DVI reports summarize the respondent's self-report
history, explain what attained scale scores mean and offer specific
score-related recommendations. Within 2½ minutes of the test data entry,
automated (computer scored) 3-page report are printed on-site. These reports
summarize a lot of information in a easily understood format. For example,
reports include a DVI Profile (graph), which summarizes scales scores at a
glance. Also included are attained scale scores, an explanation of what each
scale score means and specific score related recommendations. In addition,
significant items (direct admissions) are highlighted, and answers to a
built-in interview (last sequence of items) are presented. Emphasis is placed
on having meaningful reports that are helpful and easily understood.
Additional information can be provided upon request by writing:
Risk & Needs Assessment, Inc. P.O. Box 44828 Phoenix, Arizona 85064-4828.
Our telephone number is (602) 234-3506
Our fax number is (602) 266-8227
and our e-mail address is
sheryl@riskandneeds.com.
