NCJ Number
144424
Date Published
1993
Length
5 pages
Annotation
In 1988, staff members of the Escondido Youth Encounter, in conjunction with the San Diego County Mental Health department, developed a nonsecure day treatment program specifically aimed at juvenile male sex offenders between the ages of 12 and 17.
Abstract
Sexual Treatment Education Program and Services (STEPS) combines group, individual, and family counseling with an onsite school program, recreation, art therapy, and community services. Approximately half of the 20 offenders accepted into the 2-year program have been convicted for one or more sex offenses and are involved in STEPS as a condition of their probation. Juveniles on probation who cannot effectively participate in the program or who reoffend while in treatment are sent back to juvenile court with a recommendation for commitment in a secure or residential treatment program.