Treatment of Sexual Offenders: Research, Best Practices, and Emerging Models

Treatment of sexual offenders has evolved substantially over the years; various theoretical and practice models of treatment been developed, modified, refined, and proposed over time. The predominant current recommended approach, supported by research, adheres to specific principles of effective correctional intervention, follows a cognitive-behavioral, skills-based orientation, and explicitly targets risk factors empirically associated with sexual offending and with recidivism, such that risk of re-offending may be reduced. Cognitive-behavioral treatment focuses on changing behavior, cognition, and affect, using a skills-based approach, with the aim of reducing risk of recidivism, and includes specific characteristics and methods on the part of treatment providers. Treatment is also guided by specific principles of intervention to maximize effectiveness. New models of treatment have been proposed with the aim of replacing and/or augmenting existing models. This article discusses existing and emerging models, their research basis, and recommendations for best practice in the treatment of sexual offenders.