ABSTRACT
Chapter 7 lays the foundation for clients to engage in a comprehensive assessment of their cognitive processes, thinking errors, risk factors, and protective factors, which will inform their journey through the treatment process. It emphasizes the types of thinking errors that sex offenders typical resort to; and teaches clients how to better understanding their own patterns of thinking errors—particularly those related to their offense. Additionally, this chapter focuses on differentiating between dynamic stable and dynamic acute risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of recidivism. While static risk factors remain unchangeable, the emphasis in treatment for sex offenders should be on dynamic risk factors. Clients are encouraged to identify their personal risk factors specifically related to sexual reoffending. However, it is also crucial to highlight the significance of recognizing and addressing protective factors which minimize the risk of reoffending. By recognizing and understanding their thinking errors, risk factors, and protective factors, clients can gain insights into their own behaviors and work toward minimizing the risk of reoffending.
