NCJ Number
179884
Journal
Journal of Sexual Aggression Volume: 4 Issue: 2 Dated: 1999 Pages: 81-93
Date Published
1999
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article proposes that the standard cognitive-behavioral treatment programs for sexual offenders could be improved by providing extensive opportunities for offenders to practice disengaging deviant sexual schemes.
Abstract
The prototype sex offense schema contains images of the self, the sex act and the victim. First, the offender perceives himself in an egocentric manner; his needs come first. Next, sex is overvalued in the pursuit of happiness and is considered an acceptable method of coping with stress. A third component of schema identifies a legitimate victim. Deviant sexual schema gain their power from their sense of urgency. If offenders are going to be free from their habitual patterns, the schema need to be drained of their urgency. The article suggests that therapy in which offenders are tempted to invoke deviant schema provides a useful environment in which to learn to defuse them. Methods for invoking deviant schema include: (1) having the offender remember all the times he has been used, humiliated or rejected by women; (2) repeating key phrases that have been particularly hurtful; (3) creating ideal sexual fantasies tailored to the offender's history; (4) reading material containing attitudes tolerant of sexual assault; and (5) viewing pornography. The article questions the advisability of invoking deviant schema, on the grounds that it may be merely reinforcing dangerous habits. On the other hand, teaching coping skills without providing realistic opportunities to practice may be ineffective. References