Sex Offender Treatment Skills and Approaches

Abstract

Offender work is generally carried out in a group setting, but programmes do not always take full advantage of the therapeutic potential of group treatment principles. This chapter briefly considers the highly developed literature on groupwork and presents a systematic application to sex offender treatment, not only as a vehicle by which to deliver programmes, but also as a complementary therapeutic instrument. This innovation involves the conscious and deliberate incorporation of knowledge and strategies associated with groupwork within the context of contemporary and emerging sex offender treatment principles. It suggests the need for explicit practitioner training and supervision to maximize the value of programmes through enhanced informed awareness of group dynamics and sensitivity to group processes. Practitioners should be equipped to act responsively to the treatment needs of the group and to draw on its latent energy. As contemporary approaches to offender rehabilitation are increasingly considering process matters, this is a timely deliberation.

Impact of Prison Climate on Individuals with Sexual Convictions: Desistance and Rehabilitation

“…Ware, Frost, and Hoy (2010) reflected on this dilemma noting that one of the most important challenges for prison based treatment programs is how to address the causal or risk factors that contributed to the sex offending behaviour (skills that are to be used upon release) whilst also negating the harm caused, or difficulties created, by the prison environment (skills to be used whilst in prison). Frost, Ware, and Boer (2017) have also suggested that there are two necessary conditions in providing a positive prison climate during treatment to allow for content rehearsal and practiceparticularly in relation to interpersonal or relationship skills. First, there must be a "safe" and containing environment that is conducive to openness, directness and honesty and.…”