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Cartwright AD, Craig J. Empathy and Cognitive Distortions in Sex Offenders Participating in Community Based Treatment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2023; 67:1599-1614. [PMID: 36346152 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x221133000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between empathy as measured by the Empathy Index (EI) and the Cognitive Distortion Scale (CDS) among a sample (N = 151) of individuals who committed sexual offenses who were receiving community-based sex offender treatment in a large southern state. The extent to which the relationships by age was also considered. The findings indicated a weak but significant positive correlation between total empathy and each of the cognitive distortion scales, and a similar positive correlation between the instrumental aggression empathy subscale and the three cognitive distortion scales. Furthermore, these findings suggested that those with lower empathy were more likely to have cognitive distortions than those with higher empathy. Recommendations for future research and implications for treatment are provided.
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Molen LV, Ronis ST, Benoit AA. Paraphilic Interests Versus Behaviors: Factors that Distinguish Individuals Who Act on Paraphilic Interests From Individuals Who Refrain. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2023; 35:403-427. [PMID: 35699951 DOI: 10.1177/10790632221108949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about distinct factors linked with acting on paraphilic interests or refraining from engaging in paraphilic behaviors. Participants from Canada and the United States (N = 744), aged 19-42 years (M = 29.2; SD = 3.18), were recruited through Amazon's Mechanical Turk. Participants completed questionnaires about their paraphilic interests and behaviors, as well as potential key factors linked to behavioral engagement (i.e., perceptions of consent, sexual excitation/inhibition, impulsivity, moral disengagement, empathy). Results indicated that higher moral disengagement and impulsivity, lower sexual control (i.e., high sexual excitation, low sexual inhibition), and maladaptive understandings of consent were best able to differentiate individuals who reported highly stigmatized (e.g., hebephilia, pedophilia, coprophilia) or Bondage and Dicipline, Dominance and Submission, Sadism and Masochism(BDSM)/Fetish paraphilic interests and engagement in the paraphilic behaviours associated with these interests relative to individuals who did not report such paraphilic interests or behaviors. Moreover, higher moral disengagement, impulsivity, and maladaptive perceptions of consent were best able to differentiate non-consensual paraphilic interests and behaviours (e.g., voyeurism, exhibitionism) compared to individuals who did not report these paraphilic interests or behaviours. These results provide future directions for the exploration of mechanisms that may contribute to engagement in paraphilic behaviors and may be targets for intervention aimed at preventing engagement in potentially harmful paraphilias.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott T Ronis
- University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Aryn A Benoit
- University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
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Shechory Bitton M, Mashiach A. From Their Angle: A Look at the Emotional World of Defense Attorneys Who Represent Sex Offenders. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2022; 66:1347-1365. [PMID: 33605164 PMCID: PMC9452850 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x21994805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This research focused on how defense attorneys who represent sex offenders perceive their work with them and whether this representation affects their daily life and mental well-being. Fifteen defense attorneys working for the Public Defender's Office in Israel were interviewed using a semi-structured interview. The findings indicated two major issues related to defense attorney perception of their work: (1) the distinctiveness of representing sex offenders due to their unique characteristics and (2) the emotional impact of working with sex offenders. The findings suggest complex effects and implications of working with sex offenders. In the interviews, participants reiterated their attempt to remain objective and nonjudgmental. Even so, they also described a wide range of feelings in the face of exposure to sex offenses and their job of defending sex. Feelings of anger, disgust, and revulsion at the offenses co-existed with feelings of pity and empathy for the offender. These descriptions constitute significant support for the emotional cost to attorneys and their consequent distress. Feelings of wariness, loss of trust, and emotional detachment were described as part of coping with exposure to the disturbing nature of sex offenses. In addition, participants noted how these feelings impact daily interactions with their own children.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We review the evidence base for men who categorically deny responsibility for their sexual crimes. Specifically, we consider the characteristics of these individuals and the purpose or function of the denial, whether denial leads to an increased risk of reoffending and the evidence for different treatment options available for deniers. RECENT FINDINGS Whilst there is some evidence that deniers differ from admitters, it appears that categorical denial is a strategy used to reduce negative consequences such as a sense of shame or the fear of losing family support. The common assumption that deniers are more likely to commit further sexual crimes is not supported by the evidence to date. There remains a lack of evidence as to the best treatment approach to use. We conclude that more research is necessary. We suggest that a lack of consideration of the function of denial or the adaptive benefits of denial could explain inconsistent findings in relation to the characteristics of deniers and why denial does not appear related to recidivism. Whilst the available evidence does not support most approaches aimed at overcoming denial, we suggest that some of the most promising approaches seem to be non-disclosure-based focusing on reducing stigma; however, it is conceded that the evidence for such approaches is still emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayson Ware
- Corrective Services New South Wales, Haymarket, New South Wales, Australia.
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Ly T, Fedoroff JP, Briken P. A narrative review of research on clinical responses to the problem of sexual offenses in the last decade. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2020; 38:117-134. [PMID: 32026512 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Research on the treatment and programs for people who have committed sexual offenses has greatly increased in the past decade. The aim of this review is to discuss research that has been published over that period (2010-2019) that is relevant for treatment providers. The articles included in this review were found through PsycINFO and PubMed (Medline) using the keywords "treatment or therapy" and "sex offen*". The inclusion criteria were publications that discuss treatment of persons who have committed sexual offenses (written in the English language only). Any articles that examined only special populations were excluded, such as those that examined persons who committed sexual offenses who were female, had intellectual disabilities, deafness, juveniles, etc., because these groups will likely have needs and responsivity factors that differ from the "average" natal-born male sex offender. Results showed that several meta-analyses indicate that treatment is effective in reducing sexual recidivism. The most frequently used treatment for sex offenders is cognitive behavioral therapy, which is often provided in conjunction with pharmacological treatment to reduce sexual impulsivity and/or sex drive. This review is limited to the specific key search terms. The findings of this review support the use of treatment and a community reintegration approach when treating persons who have committed sexual crimes to prevent sexual recidivism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Ly
- Forensic Research Unit at the Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Group, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Paul Fedoroff
- Sexual Behaviours Clinic at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Group, Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical-Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Hazama K, Katsuta S. Cognitive Distortions Among Sexual Offenders Against Women in Japan. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2019; 34:3372-3391. [PMID: 27638687 DOI: 10.1177/0886260516669544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Research in Western countries has indicated that the cognitive distortions of sexual offenders play an etiological and maintenance role in offending. The present study examines whether the cognitive distortions hypothesized by previous Western studies can be found in Japanese sexual offenders against women. This study used the questionnaire administered by probation officers in the special cognitive-behavioral treatment programs for sexual offenders, which have been implemented since 2006 in Japan. Participants in the offender group were 80 Japanese male probationers and parolees (more than 19 years old, M age = 34.6, SD = 8.8) convicted of rape (n = 39) or indecent assault (n = 41). All of them attended special treatment programs at probation offices. The non-offender comparison group consisted of 95 Japanese male probation officers and police officers (M age = 35.5, SD = 11.4). A factor analysis of the questionnaire responses extracted three factors: Blaming the Victim, Minimization, and Avoidance of Responsibility. The data analyses showed that sexual offenders scored significantly higher than non-offender participants on the three subscales. No significant differences were found among four sexual offender groups classified as rapists or indecent assaulters and with or without previous convictions for sexual offenses. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that rapists and indecent assaulters placed on probation or parole in Japan hold cognitive distortions concerning sexual assaults against women than the control group of probation and police officers. The findings of this study also suggest that cognitive distortions exhibited by sexual offenders against women transcend cultural divides.
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REIS DCD, CAVALCANTE LIC, VALENTE MDR. Biopsychosocial characteristics of sex offenders: An analysis of legal proceedings. ESTUDOS DE PSICOLOGIA (CAMPINAS) 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-0275201936e170165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract In this research, biopsychosocial characteristics of people accused of sexual aggression against children/adolescents between 2012 and 2014, in three districts of the state of Pará, were identified and analyzed. Data were collected by consulting court cases and recorded on a form prepared by the research group for biopsychosocial characterization. The statistical treatment of the data involved the non-hierarchical k-means clustering method, with cluster analysis. The results revealed three distinct groups; some with certain similarities due to the biological characteristics observed (Afro-descendant men over the age of 30 years, without reported organic diseases), as well as psychological and social characteristics (men with defined occupation and work, living in urban areas, with aggression to the black victim and in the family context) and differences (schooling, alcohol abuse and physical or psychological aggression, victim sex and family attachment to the aggressor). Further studies may refine the preliminary conclusions of these analyses.
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Hamo G, Idisis Y. Pedophiles in the Ultra-Orthodox Haredi Sector in Israel: Thought Processes Regarding their Actions. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2017; 26:407-427. [PMID: 28350266 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2017.1285841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study explores thought patterns of Jewish Ashkenazi Ultra-Orthodox pedophiles in Israel and how they resolve the contradiction between their commitment to Jewish Law and having committed sexual offenses against minors. Ten adult men participated in this study. Using open semistructured interviews, their cognitive distortions before, during, and after the abuse were examined. Content analysis revealed that participants used cognitive distortions based on their own world of Jewish Law and social-cultural values. The insular nature of Ultra-Orthodox society and its many prohibitions, especially regarding sexuality, tempted offenders to test boundaries. When sexual drive was high, internal control mechanisms were ineffective even in presence of external control mechanisms. Some participants recognized the contradiction between their behaviors and being Ultra-Orthodox Jews, and others did not. Based on the findings, a flow chart was devised describing the cognitive processes of Jewish Ultra-Orthodox pedophiles. Theoretical and practical implications of the results were examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Hamo
- a Tsur Unit , Supervision of Sex Offender in the Community, Israel Prison Service , Ramla , Israel
| | - Yael Idisis
- b Criminology Department , Bar Ilan University , Ramat Gan , Israel
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Nunes KL, Pettersen C, Hermann CA, Looman J, Spape J. Does Change on the MOLEST and RAPE Scales Predict Sexual Recidivism? SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2016; 28:427-447. [PMID: 24996579 DOI: 10.1177/1079063214540725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the current study was to examine whether the MOLEST and RAPE scales and change on these measures predicted sexual recidivism in a sample of 146 adult male sexual offenders who participated in a high-intensity treatment program while incarcerated. The majority of subjects had functional scores on the MOLEST and RAPE scales prior to treatment. Of those who had dysfunctional pre-treatment scores, the majority made significant gains. However, the MOLEST and RAPE scales did not significantly predict sexual recidivism. This was the case for pre-treatment scores, post-treatment scores, and change scores. Our findings are generally not consistent with the view that these measures assess dynamic risk factors for sexual recidivism. However, this is the first published study to examine the predictive validity of these scales and more rigorous research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jan Looman
- Correctional Service of Canada, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica Spape
- Correctional Service of Canada, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Olver ME, Neumann CS, Kingston DA, Nicholaichuk TP, Wong SCP. Construct Validity of the Violence Risk Scale-Sexual Offender Version Instrument in a Multisite Sample of Treated Sexual Offenders. Assessment 2016; 25:40-55. [PMID: 27084836 DOI: 10.1177/1073191116643819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined the construct validity of the Violence Risk Scale-Sexual Offender version (VRS-SO) through an examination of its factor structure and convergence with psychological measures assessing conceptually relevant constructs in a sample of 732 treated incarcerated adult male sex offenders. The VRS-SO was rated prospectively pre- and posttreatment by service providers, and several of the men had completed a psychometric battery at each time point. Prospective Stable 2000 ratings were examined for comparison purposes. Results of exploratory longitudinal factor analysis, performed on VRS-SO pre- and posttreatment dynamic item scores, supported a three-factor model (comparative fit index = .990) and the measurement invariance of the loadings over time. A stringent longitudinal confirmatory factor analysis of the VRS-SO items also supported the three-factor structure. Scores from the three factors (Sexual Deviance, Criminality, and Treatment Responsivity) were correlated in conceptually meaningful ways with scores from the Stable 2000 and selected psychometric measures. The results provide evidence for the construct validity of VRS-SO test scores as providing an index of sex offender risk and, more specifically, that its item content and factor domains measure psychological constructs pertinent to sex offender risk and need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Olver
- 1 University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - Drew A Kingston
- 3 Royal Ottawa Health Care Group, Brockville, Ontario, Canada
- 4 University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
| | | | - Stephen C P Wong
- 1 University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- 5 Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- 6 University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Endres J, Breuer MM. Leugnen bei inhaftierten Sexualstraftätern. FORENSISCHE PSYCHIATRIE PSYCHOLOGIE KRIMINOLOGIE 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11757-014-0271-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Nunes KL, Hermann CA, Ratcliffe K. Implicit and explicit attitudes toward rape are associated with sexual aggression. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2013; 28:2657-75. [PMID: 23761302 DOI: 10.1177/0886260513487995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We examined the relationship between self-reported sexual aggression and implicit and explicit attitudes towards rape in a sample of 86 male heterosexual university students. Large, significant group differences were found between the most sexually aggressive participants and the nonaggressive participants, with the most sexually aggressive group showing less negative implicit and explicit attitudes towards rape (Cohen's d=0.76-1.20). Implicit and explicit attitudes provided complementary information such that together they were more strongly associated with sexual aggression than on their own. The current findings suggest that implicit and explicit attitudes towards rape are associated with sexual aggression. In addition to the broader set of cognitions that appear to be assessed by most self-report measures, the narrower construct of attitudes towards rape may be a fruitful avenue of further exploration for research, assessment, and treatment of sexual aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin L Nunes
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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