NCJ Number
183031
Date Published
2000
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This chapter describes numerous program strategies specific to sex offenders.
Abstract
The chapter first discusses the role of assessment in treating sex offenders, including the initial interview, penile plethysmography (examination of the offender's arousal patterns), problems in assessment, and the classification of sex offenders. An overview of treatment approaches for sex offenders first profiles organic strategies. Organic or somatic methods of treatment have historically been used to reduce the deviant drives in sex offenders. Behavioral strategies based on classical conditioning involve aversion therapy, aversive imagery, and masturbatory conditioning. Cognitive strategies, which are designed to change errors in an offender's thinking, are also often used to treat sex offenders. Murphy (1990) identifies several cognitive strategies designed to challenge offenders' distorted thinking, such as empathy training, role playing, and social skills training. The chapter also addresses relapse prevention and other program components. A review of the effectiveness of sex-offender treatment programs advises that treatment programs that use cognitive-behavioral strategies and hormonal treatments apparently have been more effective than programs that use behavioral strategies. 4 notes, key concepts and terms, and discussion questions