Sex-Offender Risk Assessment and Disposition Planning: A Review of Empirical and Clinical Findings

Abstract

The primary goal of intervention with sex offenders is to protect the community from further sexual aggression. As the availability of jail beds decreases, it is imperative that professionals discriminate between those offenders who must be incarcerated to protect the public and those offenders who can be supervised with reasonable safety in community settings. This article will review the research on variables related to sex offender recidivism which is a critical factor to consider in making these decisions. In addition, criteria for determining an offender's amenability to treatment will be examined and guidelines for formulating disposition plans will be outlined.