NCJ Number
243115
Date Published
2011
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses techniques for dealing with the sex offender in group therapy; major steps in treatment are outlined, as are specialized group techniques such as victim empathy training.
Abstract
After a review of the history of the use of group therapy, individual therapy is compared to group therapy. A table lists the pros and cons of individual therapy. Stages of group therapy are discussed, followed by a brief statement on how to build a functioning group. A section on the group therapy process contains subtopics on motivational interviewing, dealing with denial, ignoring deniers, hypnosis, confrontation, inducing guilt, and using guilt as a motivational force. A section on different types of groups addresses outpatient groups, therapeutic correctional communities, the definition of therapeutic community, specialty groups, and facilitating group interactions. In discussing the devoting of time to the offender's own victimization, attention is given to the logistics of providing treatment and the linking of the offender's victimization to the victim's trauma. The chapter concludes with an overview of the treatment of the offender and his/her family members. In summation, the chapter advises that treatment must involve establishing an awareness of what appropriate relationships represent. Often sex offenders have little, if any, awareness of normalcy in this area. Violated as children, abused or neglected, many have little opportunity to observe and learn anything other than exploitive interactions. Relearning involves confrontation, acknowledging one's own pain, and generalizing this recognition to the pain of others. It then involves relearning how to change one/s thought patterns, appropriately channel one's emotions, and control one's behavior. 22 references