This publication discusses key things to know about juveniles who sexually offend, based on the SOMAPI (Sex Offender Management Assessment and Planning Initiative) Report.
This one-page summary published by Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking (SMART) presents highlights of the SOMAPI (Sex Offender Management Assessment and Planning Initiative) Report regarding key things to know about juveniles who sexually offend. Juveniles commit a significant number of sex crimes. Sexual recidivism rates for juveniles range from 7–13 percent over a 5-year follow-up period. Research on risk factors and assessment tools for juveniles who commit sex offenses is still in its infancy. Specialized treatment for juveniles who sexually offend leads to reductions in both sexual and nonsexual recidivism. Adult and juvenile sex offenders are different. Juveniles and adults who sexually offend should be viewed as distinct populations. Tools to assess risk in juveniles are not yet validated and may serve to best inform treatment planning. Treatment can be effective in reducing their risk to reoffend, especially approaches that include group and family therapy.