The Role of Religion and Religious Institutions in Sex Offender Desistance

• In Event: Advances in Sexual Offense Policy Research: Sex Offending over the Life Course

Abstract

The current study explores the impact of religion and religious institutions in the desistance process of convicted sex offenders. Using life course interviews from a sample of sex offenders currently residing in the community, we explore the way religion helps promote desistance by creating cognitive change and increasing social control over offenders. The policy implications of our findings are discussed.

Authors

• Danielle Bailey, University of Texas at Tyler

• Robert Lytle, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

• Tusty ten Bensel, University of Arkansas at Little Rock