NCJ Number
225739
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 53 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2009 Pages: 5-28
Date Published
February 2009
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This article examines the effects of disintegrative shaming through informal and formal sanctions on sex offender reintegration.
Abstract
Results indicate that disintegrative shaming is a real consequence of current sex offender legislation; it has long-term negative consequences, including a fostering of low self-esteem as well as feelings of worthlessness that may translate to future offending. The majority of sex offenders are subjected to negative treatment in communities because of their status as sex offenders. The majority of respondents in this study were publicly labeled and socially outcast. Negative treatment ranged from minor incidents, such as being harassed by neighbors, to life-altering experiences, such as continual loss of job, separation from family and other social support systems, symptoms of depression, and erroneous rearrest. Many respondents indicated that negative treatment was intensified following media coverage of high-profile cases. Also found was that formal and informal sanctions were preventing sex offenders from becoming involved in the community and participating in community activities. By far, the most commonly reported activities among respondents involved church-related activities. Data were collected from 153 registered sex offenders in 4 counties in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Tables, appended sample narratives, notes, and references