Using biofeedback to improve emotion regulation in sexual offenders with intellectual disability: a feasibility study

Abstract

Background: Emotion dysregulation has been linked to sexual offending and reoffending across a number of different theories. Interventions focused on improving emotion regulation in sexual offenders have been recommended.

Objectives: The current study explored the feasibility and impact of biofeedback in improving an emotion regulation strategy linked to arousal control/response modulation in a sample of eight sexual offenders with intellectual disability.

Method: The study delivered a heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback intervention on eight occasions over a period of four weeks. Success of the intervention was assessed using average heart coherence. Emotion dysregulation was assessed through self-report using the modified Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and behavioral observations.

Results: Participants were able to apply themselves well to the biofeedback intervention however there were no significant improvements observed for the sample on the outcome measures. There were some improvements at an individual level.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the feasibility of this novel treatment with this offender population and outlines the future directions for research to further explore this intervention.

Keywords:

• Intellectual disability
• biofeedback
• treatment
• sex offender
• emotion regulation
• offending

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.