Evidence for the Development of the ATSA Practice Standards and Guidelines for the Treatment of Adult Male Sexual Abusers

• NCJ Number: 223367
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Psychology Practice Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: 2008 Pages: 77-88
• Author(s): William D. Murphy; Robert J. McGrath; Maia G. Christopher
• Date Published: 2008
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article describes the history and mission of the Association for Treatment of Sexual Abusers (ATSA), along with its Practice Standards and Guidelines.

Abstract

The Association for Treatment of Sexual Abusers (ATSA) is an international voluntary membership organization, and has published for its members the document, “Practice Standards and Guidelines for the Evaluation, Treatment and Management of Adult Male Sexual Abusers.” The standards in the document detail ATSA membership requirements and ethical behavior required of members, while the guidelines recommend the best practices for delivering services to this population. The article outlines the process and evidence base used to develop these standards and practices. ATSA seeks to have these standards and guidelines used as the basis to guide its members in providing evidence-based services to these offenders. The article, after providing a history of ATSA and the details concerning the Practice Standards and Guidelines, states a belief that current abuser-specific literature, combined with general correctional literature and professional consensus provide sufficient means to formulate guidelines and standards related to treatment of male sexual offenders. References