Citation

Grady S, Cherry J, Tallon M, Tunney C, O'Reilly G. J. Sex. Aggress. 2018; 24(1): 80-98.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13552600.2017.1383802

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

BACKGROUND: While previous research has focused on quantitative descriptions of adolescents who sexually abuse, little is known about their personal perspectives of treatment.

AIM: The aim of this qualitative study was threefold (1) Describe the treatment expectations and experiences of adolescents who have sexually abused attending a community-based intervention programme (2) Highlight pre-treatment differences between adolescents who completed the intervention and adolescents who failed to complete the intervention and (3) Highlight pre to post-treatment changes in adolescents who completed the intervention.

METHOD: Thematic analysis was used to examine the responses of 35 adolescents to qualitative questions in specifically designed pre and post-evaluation questionnaires.

RESULTS: Five primary themes emerged: (1) Understanding of sexually abusive behaviour (2) Support (3) Effect on relationships (4) Effect on lifestyle and (5) Self-improvement.

DISCUSSION: Findings reiterate the value of supportive interventions, reveal pre-treatment differences in level of insight, and pre to post-treatment changes in understanding, self-confidence and life skills.

Language: en

Keywords

Adolescents; qualitative; sexually abusive behaviour; treatment programme