Ethical issues encountered by mental health professionals providing sex offender treatment in criminal justice settings

Abstract

To my friends and family friends who have loved me and supported me unconditionally in the past, I thank you for your companionship and for providing me the support necessary to persist in times of adversity. I share this accomplishment with all of you. To my extended family, those who have known me in times of great adversity, and who have always supported me unconditionally and selflessly, I love you all dearly. My grandmother used to say there was a greater plan for me and this has motivated me in times of adversity. I hope that this accomplishment honors her memory, the memory of loved ones who have passed, and the rest of my family. Thank you for your love and support. I share this accomplishment with all of you. To my parents, John and Patty, and my sister, Bianca, there are no words to express what I am feeling as we have accomplished my lifelong dream of completing a PhD. You have supported me in sickness, in health, in accomplishment, in failure, and have done so without complaint, reservation, or hesitation. For as much as you may think of me as persevering, I think it is important to point out that witnessing a child or brother go through illness, surgeries, and subsequent adjustment to disability takes a remarkable degree of strength and commitment. I deeply admire all of you. Dad, you once said to me in the hospital, "If I could give my right arm and make everything okay, I would do it in a heartbeat." You were there during all the hospital stays, recitals, track meets, and soccer games. You have always been there for me, you are my best vi friend, and I want to tell you now that you can keep your arm, because everything is okay. I owe this accomplishment to you. Mom, you never allowed me to use my medical condition or disability as a crutch and expected me to be a good citizen regardless of personal adversity. You were my first ethics instructor, and those high expectations and your unconditional support have made me the man I am today. I have dedicated my life to serving others, and I hope I have made you proud. I owe this accomplishment to you. Bianca, you have always loved and supported me unconditionally and I will never ever forget how much of your childhood was impacted by my medical condition. Despite this, you always accepted me and never judged me, and even as a young child you were there at the hospital with me. Your selflessness with me never ceases to amaze me and I am forever grateful to you. I feel blessed to have such a strong, compassionate, and loving sister. I owe this accomplishment to you. And last but not least, to my wife Ashley, I owe you an eternal debt. Dissertations are seldom a solo journey and you have been with me since the beginning. You have demonstrated selflessness, caring, kindness, and compassion even in moments in which I have been preoccupied with work or school. You are the love of my life, my inspiration, and the smartest person I know. This dissertation simply does not happen without your love and support. I will never forget that and will spend the rest of ou...