NCJ Number
130487
Date Published
1990
Length
48 pages
Annotation
This report of Canada's Working Group for Sex Offender Treatment Review examines existing sex offender treatment programs in Canada, reviews the evidence on the effectiveness of such programs, identifies promising strategies for research and development in this area, and offers recommendations for further development of treatment programs for sex offenders.
Abstract
The report generally concludes that although there are many unanswered research questions surrounding etiology, assessment, typology, and efficacy of treatment regarding sex offenders, there is a substantial body of knowledge and ongoing activity on which to build policy and programs. The study finds there is no single cause of sexual offending. No approach can offer total success, but various approaches have shown some success. Continuity of treatment from the institution to the community is critical and currently problematic. Programs tend to operate in isolation; there is a need for greater coordination among the various organizations involved in the treatment of sex offenders. There is also a need to improve the transfer of case-specific information among parties. There are not enough experts to meet the demand for programs, and limited training opportunities prevent the development of the expertise required to manage and treat sex offenders. There is a need for more and diverse programs. More outcome research is also required. The risk of future dangerous behavior must be addressed as a separate issue from treatment progress. Recommendations pertain to continuity, community, and coordination; program development; risk assessment and release; training and standards; and focus and direction. Appended supplementary information and 91 references