LE3 .A278 1999

1999

Regan, Tom

Acadia University

Master of Science

Masters

Psychology

Psychology

The purpose of the present study was to test Kaplan's (1978) enhancement model in a sample of adult male inmates. Kaplan's enhancement model is based on the self-esteem motive, wherein the individual behaves so as to enhance self-esteem. Engaging in delinquent behaviour is one method of achieving group membership and enhancing self-esteem. Subjects consisted of 332 male inmates ranging in age from 18 to 58 years. This study was a cross-sectional post-dictive study that used data from the Low Self-Esteem Content Scale and the Psychopathic Deviance Scale of the MMPI-2, and demographic information from inmate intake assessments. It was predicted that self-esteem would be a function of psychopathic deviance, recidivism, and length of sentence. The hypothesis was that self-esteem would be higher for inmates who had higher scores on psychopathic deviance, were recidivist, and had longer sentences. Results indicated that recidivists had higher self-esteem than first offenders. Scores on psychopathic deviance were elevated for both groups, and recidivists had higher scores than first offenders. The present study found partial support for Kaplan's enhancement model.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2932