NCJ Number
132054
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 53 Issue: 5 Dated: (August 1991) Pages: 162,164,166,168
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
In order to match sex-offender treatment with offender characteristics, the Correctional Service of Canada divides sex offenders into the categories of pedophiles, rapists, and incest offenders.
Abstract
Pedophiles, who have committed offenses against children outside the family unit, tend to have a history of such offending. They are more likely than other types of sex offenders to admit to their offenses and recognize their need for treatment, but they do tend to minimize the impact of their behavior on their victims. More than any other type of sex offender, pedophiles require extensive training in a variety of adaptive skills and in attitude restructuring. Most pedophiles report having been sexually and physically abused as children, and the long-term effects of this abuse should be one treatment focus. Rapists have committed sex offenses solely against adults, usually females. They are more likely than other sex offenders to deny their crimes. Treatment is best done in an institutional setting where they may benefit from general-population programs such as anger management, problemsolving, cognitive restructuring training, stress management, and substance-abuse treatment. Self-control techniques as well as the modification of sexual fantasies should be treatment foci. Incest offenders are best treated by breaking down their denial and distorted perceptions of their incestuous behavior. This can best be accomplished in conjunction with family-based therapy. Treatment is most effective in a specialized community-based program. Treatment followup in the community is required to optimize the effects of institutional programming. 5 references