ABSTRACT
Sexual aggression is a complicated and socially emotionally charged phenomenon given the extensive impact on society, rendering many sex offenders as ‘outcasts’. Yet, society and offenders have to cope with human and social agencies, humanity, laws, and the risk of re-offence. It is imperative therefore that we accurately identify and intervene with this population to enhance treatment focus, engagement and outcomes. Furby et al. (1989) have formally questioned the effectiveness of sex offender treatment, although evidence does suggest that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) does reduce recidivism. This doesn’t mean that we should be complacent and dampen other innovative treatment options that have the potential to challenge or complement long-standing treatment approaches. Fortunately there are a number of encouraging innovative conceptual approaches to offer new paths to enhance treatment effectiveness and we will draw upon the Good Lives Model (GLM) and Circles of Support as two such examples in this chapter.
