NCJ Number
161118
Journal
Journal of Sexual Aggression Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: (1994/95) Pages: 69-82
Date Published
1995
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a group therapy program for juvenile sex offenders, the goal of which was to reduce the likelihood of perpetrators repeating sexually abusive acts.
Abstract
Most perpetrators were referred to a service for assessment and treatment and not specifically for the group therapy program. Adolescents between 13 and 19 years of age were eligible for group therapy. Those who had moderate learning difficulties and individuals who tenaciously denied they had perpetrated sexually abusive behavior were excluded from the study. The most frequent offense was lewd or libidinous behavior, followed by incest, exhibitionism, attempted rape, sodomy, and indecent assault. Of 21 young men in the sample, 16 received treatment under legal compulsion. Before joining the group therapy program, each perpetrator was assessed in terms of adolescent development, family functioning, sexual knowledge, attitudes and cognitions, and offending behavior. The group therapy program was adapted to the needs of group members, and this flexibility was essential to the program's success. The main objective of the first session was to establish group cohesiveness. Subsequent sessions were devoted to control techniques and strategies and particularly focused on high-risk factors, covert sensitization, cognitive distortions, victim awareness, sex education, social and dating skills and assertiveness training, and relapse prevention. Further individual treatment was offered to 60 percent of perpetrators who completed the group therapy program. Based on encouraging initial results, the group therapy program continues to evolve. 20 references and 1 table