ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the strictly cognitive practice of covert sensitization. Following relaxation training, the offender was read storylines in which he would be asked to imagine a scene of his typical mode of offending but then to imagine a dreadful or revolting ending. Multiple pairings are required but the technique, now termed “assisted” covert sensitization, has been empirically proven to reduce deviant behaviors. Generally introduced in treatment once sufficient trust has been built between therapist and client, orgasmic reconditioning employs an offender’s own sexual fantasies to reduce deviant desires. However, having clients tape-record masturbation sessions has provided some verification about the authenticity of completion of the tasks, which must be repeated often to be effective. While the plethysmograph was originally designed purely as an instrument of assessment, it has become just as rewarding as a treatment technique in its own right.
