Attachments: The Multiple Sorting Task Procedure

Abstract

Much research attention has been given to sexual offenders, who mostly have been found to have insecure attachments (Ward et al., 1995, 1996; Lyn and Burton, 2004, 2005; Simons, Wurtele and Durham, 2008). This chapter will begin by summarising attachment theory and explain its link to criminality. Next we describe the way in which TC residents’ attachments to people were assessed through the Multiple Card Sorting Procedure. We chose this method because it allows the card sorter to provide their own categories and concepts, and we were able to engage the TC residents in this task, which was repeated several times. In this way we were able to explore psychological change with residents. Critical to the TC experience are the forming of relationships and the manner in which they are perceived and negotiated by residents. Our findings from the card sorts enabled us to track change of individuals, and the versatility of the method also allowed us to examine shifts in attachment style of the group. The chapter will present the advantages and draw attention to the limitations of this approach in working with residents to monitor change.