1st Edition
The Rehabilitation of Sexual Offenders Complexity, Risk and Desistance
Sexual offenders – arguably the most hated and feared of all offenders – commit their crimes in our communities and are then hidden from public view as they serve long prison sentences. However, despite the public’s understandable anxiety, our criminal justice systems hold to the premise that almost all offenders have the right to hope for rehabilitation, even redemption. Therefore the majority of sexual offenders return to live in our communities, closely monitored by criminal justice agencies and subject to rigorous controls.
This book provides an authoritative guide to working with sexual offenders, with a focus on managing those who are reintegrating into the community. It includes those with the most striking histories of trauma and psychological difficulty, and those who have previously failed in their attempts at resettlement. It covers helpful theoretical ideas, such as attachment theory and models of desistance, as well as the latest evidence base for good quality risk assessment.
The book supports practitioners on the front line of this work by providing them with evidence-based guidance. It presents a multitude of case examples and practice tips that can support effective decision making and achieve safe outcomes, as well as help such offenders build worthwhile community lives.
Biography
Dr. Jackie Craissati MBE is a Consultant Clinical and Forensic Psychologist and has worked as a leader in the field of offending, risk and mental disorder for over 25 years.
‘Dr Craissati is a scientist-practitioner who understands theory and evidence and, crucially, explains it with a commitment to simplicity, weaving in personal reflection and case examples in a way that makes the book a very engaging read. Her clinical expertise and wisdom is striking an she serves as an excellent role model for all practitioners working in this difficult field.’ Dr. Ruth Mann, Public Sector Prisons North, UK
‘In this wonderful small book, Dr Jackie Craissati has distilled many years of clinical experience working with individuals who have committed sexual offences. She demonstrates a profound understanding of cutting edge theory, research, and clinical practice without ever losing a sense of the individual person who is being treated. A striking feature of the book is the way Dr Craissati manages to balance an appreciation of the complexity of clients while still providing a lucid overview of how to work with them effectively and ethically. It is an outstanding achievement.’ Tony Ward, Victorian University of Wellington, New Zealand
‘Sexual offences are horrible crimes, but if we want to be safer - and keep our children safe - it’s just not enough to keep repeating that. Anyone seriously wanting to do so should read this excellent book. Mainly for professionals in health and criminal justice, and endorsing the importance of expertise for accurate identification of sex offenders, their future risks and specific treatments, Craissati shows how the wider public too can get involved.’ Pamela Taylor, University of Cardiff, UK
