Men with Sexual Convictions and Denial (2020)

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Type of Content
Journal ArticlePublisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLCISSN
1523-38121535-1645
Language
engCollections
- Law: Journal Articles [221]
Abstract
Purpose of Review: We review the evidence base for men who categorically deny responsibility for their sexual crimes. Specifically, we consider the characteristics of these individuals and the purpose or function of the denial, whether denial leads to an increased risk of reoffending and the evidence for different treatment options available for deniers. Recent Findings: Whilst there is some evidence that deniers differ from admitters, it appears that categorical denial is a strategy used to reduce negative consequences such as a sense of shame or the fear of losing family support. The common assumption that deniers are more likely to commit further sexual crimes is not supported by the evidence to date. There remains a lack of evidence as to the best treatment approach to use. Summary: We conclude that more research is necessary. We suggest that a lack of consideration of the function of denial or the adaptive benefits of denial could explain inconsistent findings in relation to the characteristics of deniers and why denial does not appear related to recidivism. Whilst the available evidence does not support most approaches aimed at overcoming denial, we suggest that some of the most promising approaches seem to be non-disclosure-based focusing on reducing stigma; however, it is conceded that the evidence for such approaches is still emerging.
Citation
Ware J, Blagden N (2020). Men with Sexual Convictions and Denial. Current Psychiatry Reports. 22(9). 51-.This citation is automatically generated and may be unreliable. Use as a guide only.
Keywords
men with sexual convictions; denial; characteristics; risk; treatmentANZSRC Fields of Research
44 - Human society::4402 - Criminology::440209 - Gender and crime44 - Human society::4402 - Criminology::440214 - Sociological studies of crime
Rights
All rights reserved unless otherwise statedRelated items
Showing items related by title, author, creator and subject.
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Are Categorical Deniers Different? Understanding Demographic, Personality, and Psychological Differences between Denying and Admitting Individuals with Sexual Convictions
Ware J; Blagden N; Harper C; ware, jayson (Informa UK Limited, 2020)The purpose of this study was to establish whether there were demographic, personality, or psychological differences between a sample of 40 incarcerated sex offenders in categorical denial and 37 sex offenders admitting ... -
Treatment engagement with a sexual offender who denies committing the offense
Marshall WL; ware, jayson (SAGE Publications, 2008)This case study describes a strategy for treating a sexual offender who categorically denies committing the offense. These offenders usually refuse to participate in treatment or are deemed ineligible or unsuitable for ... -
Risk assessment and treatment planning
Matsuo D; ware, jayson (Wiley-Blackwell, 2016)The Wiley Handbook on the Theories, Assessment and Treatment of Sexual Offending is a three-volume collection of up-to-date readings contributed by international experts relating to the assessment, intervention, and ...