Higher PCL-R scores are associated with what pattern for violent sexual offenses?

• A. May have increased risk for sexual violence
• B. Sexual promiscuity
• C. Predictive of sexual recidivism
• D. Higher PCL-R scores commit more frequent and more severe levels of violent sexual offenses

Answer: (D)

Higher PCL-R scores reflect pronounced psychopathic traits—glibness, manipulation, lack of empathy, impulsivity, and antisocial behavior. In violent sexual offenses, these traits are linked to more instrumental, goaded aggression and a greater willingness to offend, which translates into both committing offenses more often and those offenses being more severe in nature. Research consistently shows that individuals with higher psychopathy scores have a higher risk of future violence and tend to engage in offenses that are more frequent and more severe. Therefore, the pattern described—more frequent and more severe violent sexual offenses—best fits the association with higher PCL-R scores.