This was sent in via email by the person below, and posted with their permission.09/10/2011
By Allison Gamble
Although sex offender treatment doesn't eliminate sex crime in the United States, recent research and forensic psychology insights support the theory that effective psychological treatment programs can decrease occurrence of sexual offenses and protect potential victims. Psychological treatment based on cognitive therapy has proven effective in altering dysfunctional sexual tendencies and encouraging appropriate behavior through positive reinforcement. Cognitive therapy, which involves modification of thoughts and behavior, emphasizes training in social skills, relationship building, sex education, and lifestyle change with the ultimate goal of returning convicted sex offenders to healthy community living and gainful employment.
Sex offenders are those convicted of sex crimes, which vary by jurisdiction and may include rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, and child sexual abuse. For those convicted of sex crimes prison sentences are usually followed by a term of parole combined with a comprehensive treatment program. Sex offender treatment focuses on the prevention of future offenses through adjusting offenders' thoughts and behavior.
Research suggests psychological treatment may reduce recidivism among convicted sex offenders. Psychotherapy programs emphasize recognition of factors that increase sex offenders' risk of committing further offenses after release. Identified factors include the number and severity of the offenses, intimacy issues, sexual preoccupations, and offenders' age at the time of the offense.
Surgical treatment for sex offenders is controversial, and usually performed only in extreme cases. Two types of surgery have been used on a limited basis: neurosurgery and castration. The neurosurgical procedures involve removal of portions of the hypothalamus, which disrupts the production of testosterone, decreasing sexual desire. Surgical castration has not proven effective in the treatment of sex offenders, and is widely opposed by medical professionals based on ethical concerns. It has been reported that testosterone levels decrease following the procedure, but the risks of the operation greatly outweigh potential benefits.
Several prisons across the United States have instituted comprehensive sex offender treatment programs. New York state operates one of the largest and most successful sex offender treatment programs in the country, designed to provide convicted sex offenders the skills necessary to live productive lives upon release. The program has been successful in reducing the risk of committing additional offenses by assisting participants in changing and controlling the sexual behaviors that led to conviction.
In addition to participation in the program, sex offenders are required to pursue developmental activities, including vocational training, education, and spiritual development. The program curriculum includes classes on developing core values, understanding cognitive disorders, and recognizing sexually abusive patterns. Individual therapy is designed to instruct offenders on relapse prevention skills, building relationships, and establishing a discharge plan.
Recognizing that prison sex offender treatment is not a cure for sexual deviancy, the Washington Department of Corrections has developed an innovative treatment program at the Monroe Correctional Complex. One of the most comprehensive prison sex offender treatment programs in the United States, it focuses on the development of goals designed to rehabilitate convicted sex offenders, resulting in reduced recidivism.
The program teaches offenders to understand and manage risks associated with sexual behavior through skills designed to prevent relapse. Treatment is regarded as successful only if offenders are able to understand factors that triggered their sexual offenses, and are able to develop the ability to manage and control their behavior. Offenders are required to continue with treatment for several years following release from prison, and provided assistance with living arrangements and aftercare through the Department of Corrections.
In addition to requiring convicted sex offenders to register in their respective communities, the criminal courts and Department of Corrections often impose conditions and requirements during the period of probation. In most jurisdictions, living arrangements must be approved by supervising corrections officers. Offenders are not permitted to change residences without prior inspection and approval. They may not purchase, possess, or consume alcohol or illegal drugs, nor initiate or maintain contact with victims or family members of victims. The law also mandates full disclosure of one's crimes to any potential adult sexual partner. Offenders may also be required to pay restitution to victims, and can be held financially responsible for community supervision fees.
Upon release from incarceration, the majority of sex offenders receive assistance in seeking and maintaining residences in any community. Aftercare programs facilitate the location of appropriate halfway homes or group living facilities. When possible, measures are taken to return sex offenders to their own families. Restrictions may apply if there are minor children in the home, and if so, living arrangements are closely monitored. Once rehabilitated and with participation in ongoing therapy and counseling services, sex offenders are able to return to gainful employment and live normal lives in their communities.
