NCJ Number
168314
Journal
Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment Volume: 9 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1997) Pages: 321-333
Date Published
1997
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article reports on a study of self-esteem enhancement procedures as part of a treatment program for child molesters.
Abstract
This report describes and examines the effects on nonfamilial child molesters of treatment aimed at increasing self-esteem. Thirty-two child molesters received self-esteem enhancement procedures as part of an overall treatment program, and the effects were evaluated in terms of changes on the Social Self-esteem Inventory. The procedures significantly enhanced self-esteem, with changes related to reductions in loneliness and increases in intimacy. The changes were unrelated to improvements in victim empathy despite the fact that victim empathy and self-esteem scores were significantly correlated at pretreatment. The value of enhancing the self-esteem of sexual offenders concerns not only individuals' motivation to effectively participate in treatment, but also the influence of this enhancement on other dysfunctional aspects of these clients. The article discusses the implications of study results for theory and treatment. Tables, references