NCJ Number
209925
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 13 Issue: 3/4 Dated: 2004 Pages: 295-317
Date Published
2004
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This qualitative, idiographic study focused on the experiences of seven "successful" juvenile sex offenders who did not reoffend after being discharged from a day treatment program in San Diego, CA.
Abstract
The treatment program is a 2-year program for male adolescent sex offenders between the ages of 12 and 17. The seven participants in this study were part of a sample of program participants who had left the program at least 1 year prior to the onset of this study. For the purposes of this study, "success" was defined as abstention from reoffending, both sexually and nonsexually based on a review of criminal records. The instrument used in this study was an 82-question demographic interview developed for the study. It addressed major components of adolescent development (e.g., family support, education, peer relationships, romantic relationships, and occupation) as well as mental health, criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. Each of the boys came from chaotic homes, with five of the homes having experienced domestic violence; six of the boys were themselves victims of physical abuse. Immediately prior to and during their offenses, each identified feelings of confusion, self-hatred, loneliness, and anger. All expressed feelings of guilt, shame, embarrassment, and sadness when recalling their offenses. Most wanted to "move on" and leave the label of "sex offender" behind them. Most were surprised to learn that they fit the definition of "successful," and many had difficulty in explaining why they had not reoffended. The answers given were in three categories: family support, therapeutic support, and mindset. In responding to the request to offer advice to current program participants, they emphasized the importance of believing in one's self, remaining focused, and maintaining hope. Six of the seven participants found the treatment program to have a positive impact on their attitudes and behavior. 8 tables and 17 references