Citation

Vivian-Byrne S. J. Sex. Aggress. 2004; 10(2): 181-192.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13552600412331290094

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper aims to examine the meaning of "treatment" for sexual offenders, with reference to the early critique of this term by McGuire and Priestley (1985) and its current usage in association with programmes in the criminal justice and mental health systems. The aims and process of bringing about change for this client group are considered from the perspective of a range of psychological models and approaches. Beginning with the CBT model, other schools of thought, including schema-focussed therapy, personal construct psychology, motivational interviewing, systemic therapy, and post-modern social-constructionist perspectives, are elaborated in terms of their relevance for this field. Throughout, there is an emphasis on the potential of different perspectives and a suggestion that we reassess the modernist position, which currently dominates with respect to psychological intervention with sexual offenders. Recognizing both the successes and the limitations of current "treatments" is seen as a key factor in enabling an ongoing critical stance and the ability to innovate in the area of "treatability". The need to examine more openly our assumptions about psychological treatment and therapy in general, but specifically with this client group, is also highlighted. Our ability to change other people's minds and behaviour is strongly challenged.