The Firestone Assessment of Violent Thoughts (FAVT) is a psychiatric assessment tool published by PAR in 2008 by Robert W. Firestone and Lisa Firestone designed to predict violent thoughts that may ultimately lead to violent behavior.[1][2] The FAVT can be given in interview format by a psychological professional or in written format and is administered in 15 minutes.[3] FAVT items are organized into five levels and two theoretical subscales. These levels and subscales allow a better understanding of the individual in order to offer more targeted treatment.[4]
The FAVT is a brief self-report assessment tool established on the principle that one's thought processes influence one's potential for violent behavior.[5] Psychologists Robert W. Firestone and Lisa Firestone developed the concept of an inner "voice" within a person's mind which commentatates and criticizes the individual and others, and this voice plays a role in violent thoughts.[6] The "voice" and subsequent violent thoughts prime violent behavior and can be used to assess risk factor for violent and aggressive behavior.[7][8]
The research process in designing the FAVT included data gathered on 639 prisoners, parolees, and domestic violence perpetrators.[9] The Glendon Association's research has found that the FAVT can be used to distinguish between violent and nonviolent individuals.[10][11][12][13] A pilot study was performed and results indicated that the FAVT was able to distinguish between adolescents with a history of violence and those without such a history.[14]
The Firestone Assessment of Violent Thoughts–Adolescent (FAVT-A) uses the same principles and research as the FAVT, but is designed for adolescents ages 11–18 years.[15] The 35 FAVT-A items are organized into the same five levels and two theoretical subscales as the FAVT.[16]
^Cognitive therapy for violence: reaching the parts that anger management doesn't reach. Journal of Forensic Psychiatry & Psychology, 20(2), 174 - 201.
