Using a visually adapted repertory grid technique (VARGT) with people who stalk

Journal article

Wheatley, R., Winder, B. and Kuss, D.J. 2020. Using a visually adapted repertory grid technique (VARGT) with people who stalk. Journal of Forensic Practice. 22 (2), pp. 1-23. https://doi.org/10.1108/jfp-10-2019-0048
AuthorsWheatley, R., Winder, B. and Kuss, D.J.
Abstract

Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to provide instructions on how to implement an adapted version of the standard repertory grid technique (VARGT). The purpose of which is to provide practitioners with a tool, which enables active engagement by participants in research and clinical practice. This tool has been used effectively with people convicted of stalking offences.

Design/methodology/approach
Repertory grids, developed from Kelly’s Personal Construct Theory (1955), had never been used with those who stalk, either clinically or in a research context. Visual and kinaesthetic adaptations were made to standard RGT procedures (Grice, 2002; Tan and Hunter, 2002), for use in a mixed methods research study (Wheatley, 2019, p. 77) due to expected challenges in engaging with this group. This manuscript presents theoretical underpinnings and step-by-step instructions for practical application.

Findings
The VARGT is easy to administer and produces rich data, in both qualitative and quantitative formats. This adapted approach encourages active participation and an interpreted therapeutic collaboration (Wheatley et al., 2020).

Practical implications
This novel technique has engaged men convicted of stalking offences collaboratively in research activities and showed potential for its use as a clinical tool. This instructional technical paper allows the technique to be replicated.

Originality/value
This novel technique has engaged men convicted of stalking offences collaboratively in research activities and showed potential for its use as a clinical tool. This instructional technical paper allows the technique to be replicated.

KeywordsMixed methods ; Stalking ; Adapted repertory grids
Year2020
JournalJournal of Forensic Practice
Journal citation22 (2), pp. 1-23
PublisherEmerald
ISSN2050-8794
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1108/jfp-10-2019-0048
Web address (URL)https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/39176/
https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/JFP-10-2019-0048/full/html
http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85082432744&partnerID=MN8TOARS
Output statusPublished
Publication dates27 Mar 2020
Publication process dates
Accepted2019
Deposited15 Jan 2024
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