Explain one strength and one limitation of using a self-report method to investigate offending behaviour. (6 marks)

One strength of using self-report methods to investigate offending behaviour is that they allow researchers to access thoughts, motives, and personal experiences that are not directly observable. For example, offenders can be asked about their attitudes towards crime, remorse, or triggers for aggression, providing rich qualitative data that can support psychological explanations of criminality. This insight can help tailor rehabilitation programmes like anger management more effectively.

However, a limitation is that self-report data on offending behaviour may lack validity due to social desirability bias. Offenders might downplay the severity of their crimes or present themselves in a more favourable light to avoid judgment or consequences. This means the information gathered may not accurately reflect their true thoughts or behaviours, making it harder to draw reliable conclusions in forensic research.