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Distortion and Lying as Defense Processes in the Adolescent Child Molester

NCJ Number
123433
Journal
Journal of Offender Counseling, Services and Rehabilitation Volume: 14 Issue: 2 Dated: (1989) Pages: 161-168
Author(s)
D D French
Date Published
1989
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The article proposes that the adolescent child molester universally engages in the defense processes of distortion and lying in an attempt to avoid the extremely aversive consequences of acknowledging his offense.
Abstract
It is suggested that these processes are interrelated and difficult to distinguish from one another. A theoretical rationale is presented as to the function and origin of the processes. Six specific denial strategies which are common manifestations of distortion and lying are outlined. The ideas presented are based on clinical observation of 442 adolescent child molesters in an outpatient setting. (Author abstract)

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