Treating Individuals Adjudicated for Sex Crimes: Perceptions of Community Providers

• In Event: Navigating Life after Segregation and Sex Offenses

Abstract

Considerable efforts are being made to evaluate and improve reentry services both at the national and state levels. Community-based sex offender treatment providers (SOTPs) play important roles as reentry service providers, however, there is a dearth of attention given to understanding their role and professional challenges. Using data collected with semi-structured interviews and open-ended surveys, this study examines the professional experiences of community based SOTPs in a Midwestern state. Preliminary thematical findings suggest that providers 1) demonstrate resiliency and coping mechanisms to occupational stress, 2) frequently analyze the ethical and systemic complications inherent to treating court-mandated clients, and 3) are acutely aware of factors affecting recruitment and maintenance of providers in the field. The study concludes with policy recommendations intended to address personal and systemic concerns with playing the role of the SOTP.

Authors

• Andrea M. Walker, University of Nebraska at Omaha

• Michael F. Campagna, University of Nebraska at Omaha