Program Development (From Juvenile Sexual Offending: Causes, Consequences, and Correction, P 183-200, 1997, Gail Ryan and Sandy Lane, eds. -- See NCJ-171449)

• NCJ Number: 171460
• Author(s): F H Knopp; R Freeman-Longo; S Lane
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: Jossey-Bass Publishers
• Publication Type: Historical Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Based on a review of surveys of juvenile sex offender treatment programs over the last few decades, this paper traces the development and treatment methods of such programs throughout the United States.

Abstract

One of the first comprehensive, organized programs developed to assess adolescent sex offenders began in the fall of 1975 at the Adolescent Clinic of the University of Washington's School of Medicine. The community-based treatment component was largely delayed until 1978 because of funding difficulties. Knopp's 1982 study included descriptions of both community-based and residential treatment settings. Several programs used various types of peer culture approaches to remedy low self-esteem and social skills deficits. Many programs used some combination of family, group, and individual therapies. By 1984 the most common components of psychoeducational programs used in community-based treatment were social skills training; education in human sexuality and values; victim awareness; responsibility and empathy; anger management; appropriate sex role expectations versus stereotyping; and victim counseling for clients who had suffered emotional physical, or sexual trauma. Respondents to a 1994 survey were asked to identify which one of nine models defined by the Safer Society could be identified most closely with their program model. A total of 281 respondents (41 percent) indicated they used a behavioral-cognitive model. Over the past decade some important developments have contributed to this young field. A significant amount of networking has occurred. During the past few years, some crucial concepts have been proposed. The comprehensive vision of the continuum-of-care philosophy for each community is significant. The suggested risk criteria and offender typologies, the sexual abuse cycle, relapse-prevention strategies, and the matrix of treatment interventions used by the Oregon Department of Family Services are all significant contributions. Researchers are beginning to produce studies that test the theories, practices, and results from various parts of the country. A body of research must be created to support or refine current knowledge and practice. 5 tables and 38 references