IPA study of psychological consequences of violence for perpetrator
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An IPA exploration of the psychological consequences of committing a violent offence with no previous history of violence
IRAS ID
143912
Contact name
James McGuire
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool
Research summary
There has been limited research on the psychological sequelae of perpetrating violent offences, with little or no research focusing on those individuals who have done so with no history of violence. It is possible that those who commit serious violent offences that are ‘out of character’ and unusual in the context of their normal behaviour may be more likely to experience distressing psychological consequences, or to develop protective defences against this.
This study aims to undertake semi-structured interviews with 6-10 participants, identified as having committed a violent offence with no previous history of violence, and suggested as suitable for approach by healthcare professionals involved in their care within secure services in the North-West. The interviews will focus on exploring the psychological impact of the participant's violence with respect to self and others, how they ‘make sense of’ the reasons for the violent episode, how the participant has managed any psychological difficulties arising from their offence, and how the act of violence impacts upon their perception of ‘self’.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NW/1018
Date of REC Opinion
19 Jun 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion