NCJ Number
183000
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Dated: 2000 Pages: 20-25
Date Published
2000
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article reports on a study that investigated the attitudes of sex offenders regarding the use of polygraph testing in their treatment.
Abstract
Twenty-eight male sex offenders completed an anonymous survey to measure their attitudes toward polygraph testing as a treatment modality. All respondents were receiving treatment for sexual addiction, which included both full sexual disclosure polygraph and periodic polygraph examinations. Respondents were able to recall the number of victims they offended as well as more facts about each offense in anticipation of polygraph testing; many remembered offenses for which they had not been arrested or charged. Other respondents reported that the polygraph helped them share personal information about themselves more freely in treatment groups, with therapists and with their probation officers, which allowed for better treatment planning and legal supervision of the offenders. Some respondents avoided having contact with their victims and reduced their grooming behaviors with potential victims as a result of the polygraph. This behavior change helped them to avoid potential treatment and probation violations. In addition, polygraph testing helped offenders clarify their personal boundaries and values and appeared to be helpful in teaching them new attitudes regarding appropriate sexual behavior. References