Impact of Community Notification Laws on Sex Offender Treatment Attitudes

• NCJ Number: 208483
• Journal: International Journal of Law and Psychiatry Volume: 26 Issue: 2 Dated: March-April 2003 Pages: 207-219
• Author(s): Eric B. Elbogen; Marc Patry; Mario J. Scalora
• Date Published: March 2003
• Length: 13 pages
• Grant Number(s): 5T32MH16156
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute of Mental Health
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded January 25, 2005.

Annotation

This study explored sex offenders' understanding of community notification laws and how such legislation might affect sex offenders' attitudes toward treatment.

Abstract

Recently a number of States have passed or are considering community notification laws that would permit public disclosure of information about a sex offender. The information disclosed to the public varies among the laws, but usually includes name, age, social security number, race, height, weight, sex, hair and eye color, permanent address, and working address. In attempting to determine sex offenders' understanding of community notification laws and the laws' impact on offenders' attitudes toward treatment, this study focused on a sample of (n=40) of sex offenders receiving treatment at a Nebraska inpatient psychiatric hospital. Eighty-eight percent of these offenders were convicted for offenses against children. Participants were administered a questionnaire designed to assess their knowledge of the sex offender registration and notification laws that have been enacted, as well as their attitudes toward these laws and treatment. Prior to reading Nebraska's community notification statute, the participants had little accurate understanding of the law. After reading the law, the majority of participants perceived it to be "unfair" in requiring the public release of one's home address, home telephone, work address, vehicle description, and license plate number. On the other hand, the participants generally regarded notification laws as providing a strong incentive for them not to reoffend, and this attitude increased their willingness to be treated for their criminal sexual behavior. In discussing the clinical implications of these findings, the authors recommend that therapists inform their clients of the requirements of any notification law applicable in their jurisdiction and discuss with the clients the implications of the law for their adjustment in the community and for their treatment. 3 tables and 57 references