Ethnic minority sex offenders and treatment

Hudson, Katie Elizabeth (2013). Ethnic minority sex offenders and treatment. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

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Abstract

This thesis examines sex offender treatment for those from ethnic minority backgrounds. In order to explore this area, the methods used were a systematic literature review (N = 1067), empirical research (N = 84) and a psychometric critique. Chapter one provides the context to the thesis. The outcomes from the literature review are presented in Chapter two. These were that treatment was less effective for ethnic minority sex offenders on a range of outcome measures with the exception of psychometric test results. Whilst psychometric testing did not indicate poorer treatment outcomes for ethnic minority offenders, higher levels of denial were found in the ethnic minority group. The research project in Chapter three compared treatment outcomes of Asian and White sex offenders who had undergone a community treatment programme. The results indicated higher levels of Self-Deception Enhancement in Asian offenders (as measured by the Paulhus Deception Scale), however, there were no other significant differences found between the two groups. The effectiveness of the treatment overall showed mixed findings and the results are discussed in relation to the existing research. Chapter four provides a critique of Richard Beckett’s Children and Sex Questionnaire; a measure utilised in chapters two and three of this thesis. Chapter five draws the thesis together and outlines the practical and theoretical implications of the thesis and its limitations. Ideas are suggested for development of this area of study in terms of both research and practice including the use of a framework for working with sex offenders and the potential integration of the Good Lives Model principles within the Risk Need Responsivity model. It is proposed that both have the potential to improve responsivity and target those from ethnic minority backgrounds more effectively with the aim of tackling the problem of their under-representation within sex offender treatment.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

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