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 the "DVI: An Inventory of Scientific
Findings.", click on
the
"DVI: An Inventory of Scientific
Findings."
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
Behavior Data Systems
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
Behavior Data Systems, Ltd.'s (BDS') 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
Behavior Data Systems
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
Behavior Data Systems.
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
Behavior Data Systems, 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
Behavior Data Systems, 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
Behavior Data Systems'
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
Behavior Data Systems 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. Behavior Data
Systems' 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: An Inventory of Scientific Findings." 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. Behavior Data Systems 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, Behavior Data Systems 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:
Behavior Data Systems encourages test users to delete respondent names from diskettes
before they are returned to Behavior Data Systems. 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 Behavior
Data Systems.
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: Behavior Data
Systems' 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. Behavior Data Systems gives attendees
certificates attesting to their DVI training.
Staff training is also provided on Fridays at Behavior Data Systems' 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 Behavior Data Systems 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 7,943 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.
Behavior Data Systems' 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.
Behavior Data Systems' 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 Behavior Data Systems' 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. Behavior Data Systems 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
Behavior Data Systems 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). Behavior Data Systems 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.
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. Here is a link to "DVI: An Inventory of Scientific
Findings."
EXAMPLE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INVENTORY REPORT
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.
