NCJ Number
119126
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The Department of Corrective Services of Western Australia has established a pilot program to provide comprehensive treatment of sex offenders, based on a 2-year research effort conducted by a committee convened in June 1985.
Abstract
The committee was formed as a result of the increased numbers of reported cases of child sexual abuse, awareness of new psychological research regarding assessment and treatment, recognition that more than 12 percent of prisoners had committed sexually aggressive offenses, and efforts to enhance the role of correctional staff. The committee surveyed demographic data, current treatment methods, the views of professionals and prisoners, and offense and sentencing trends. It also undertook a feasibility study of selected treatment programs in the United States and Canada. Results showed the effective programs to include behavioral assessment and treatment of sexual deviancy, cognitive therapeutic components, social skills treatment, educational components, anger management, and stress management. The overall effort produced recommendations for a comprehensive program consisting of four modules: a core module, a maintenance module, a pre-release module, and a post-release module. Careful attention was given to the program's name, facilities, equipment, staffing, participant selection, and staff training. Fifteen offenders have been involved in the program since its start in June 1987. The 12 who have remained in the Sex Offender Treatment Program appear to have progressed satisfactorily, although the program cannot guarantee that offenders will not commit further, and staff have reported increased job satisfaction. 5 references.