CTS2 (Revised Conflict Tactics Scales)
Definition
Straus et al. (1996) instrument for quantifying domestic violence history through self-report, used in research contexts in custody evaluations; its use in clinical forensic practice requires awareness of the significant under-reporting that characterises adversarial custody contexts.
- Authors
- Straus et al.
- Year
- 1996
- Method
- Self-report instrument on domestic violence history
- Context of use
- Custody evaluations, research contexts
Common questions
Why does under-reporting matter so much when the CTS2 is used in a custody evaluation?+
Both parties in a contested custody case have an incentive to present themselves favourably, which can suppress disclosure of their own behaviour or, conversely, motivate exaggeration about the other party. An evaluator using the CTS2 needs to weigh scores against this adversarial context rather than treat them as a neutral self-report.
Should CTS2 scores alone determine a custody recommendation involving alleged domestic violence?+
No. Professional guidance treats the CTS2 as one data point to be triangulated with collateral records, interviews, and other assessment tools, since a self-report instrument developed largely for research purposes was not designed to carry sole weight in a high-stakes legal determination.
Related terms
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