NCJ Number
98475
Date Published
1983
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This paper considers seven primary areas in developing and administering a treatment program for sexually aggressive offenders in a maximum security setting: physical setting, clientele, program staff, use of resources, staff training, treatment issues and program planning, and special considerations for the adolescent offender.
Abstract
The physical settings discussed are the prison setting and the State hospital or forensic facility, both secure settings. Differences in program development in these two settings are noted. The discussion of the management of the clientele advises that sex offenders should be housed on a separate wing or ward to facilitate positive peer interaction and that those motivated for treatment should not be mixed with those resistant to treatment. Resources suggested include (1) community volunteers to help with recreational programs and occupational therapies and (2) local universities for consultation and program evaluation services. The discussion of staffing focuses on the team approach as the preferred structure, the ratio of male to female staff, inservice staff training, and provision of 24-hour staffing. Aspects of client evaluation and treatment considered include (1) whether evaluation, treatment, and determination of release should be separated or combined as program responsibilities and (2) who makes the decision about discharging offenders. Guidance is given for the selection of treatment modalities, and particular issues to consider in organizing a program for adolescent offenders are examined. Client assesments are discussed, and a checklist to measure client progress is provided. Advice on working with the State bureaucracy under which the program operates is offered. Two references are listed.