NCJ Number
147085
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Dated: special issue (March 1994) Pages: 10-27
Date Published
1994
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article reviews two sets of publications on therapeutic effectiveness with sex offenders, both of which came to gloomy conclusions, and considers some recent outcome reports with a more optimistic outlook.
Abstract
In a review of recidivism studies of sex offenders, Furby, Weinrott, and Blackshaw (1989) claimed that only tentative conclusions could be made about treatment outcome, because every relevant investigation contained significant methodological flaws. Although the conclusions of Furby et al, reflect the ineffectiveness of early, unspecialized approaches to sex offender treatment, such conclusions may not be justified when considering the outcome of more modern highly specialized intervention and management strategies. A series of articles on the treatment of sex offenders was recently presented by the research group at the Mental Health Centre at Penetanguishene in Ontario, Canada. This group examined the effectiveness of a behavioral program that was in vogue in the early 1970's when such an approach to sex offender treatment was in its infancy. The research shows that such simple conceptualizations of treatment are ineffective. This justifies the current move to expand the range of treatments offered. Recent, relatively well controlled evaluations have shown that the treatment of sex offenders can be effective. To be minimally effective, according to this appraisal of the literature, treatment must be comprehensive, cognitive-behaviorally based, and include a relapse prevention component. Earlier outcome research that showed either treatment failure or equivocal results did not meet these criteria. Recommendations are offered for improved evaluations of sex offender treatment programs. 52 references