NCJ Number
156349
Journal
Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1995) Pages: 167-175
Date Published
1995
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The use of Pithers' adaptation of Marlatt's original relapse prevention model with sex offenders is critically examined, with emphasis on the implications of defining a lapse and relapse to temporally earlier points in the offense behavior chain.
Abstract
The application of Marlatt's relapse prevention model to sex offender treatment has greatly aided the assessment and therapy of these difficult men. Pithers' reformulation of the model has been particularly useful. However, in applying this model of addition to the sexual aggressor, certain conceptual and empirical problems have been overlooked. Specifically, redefining a lapse and incorporating the problem of immediate gratification into the abstinence violation effect has created theoretical confusion and is not supported by recent empirical research. These issues have important clinical implications. First, it is necessary to teach sex offenders to regard the existence of strong positive emotional responses during the high-risk situation as a serious warning sign that requires immediate action. More critically, without treatment, offenders are unlikely to regard a lapse as a negative event and therefore to take immediate action when warning signs occur. Figure and 15 references (Author abstract modified)