Professionals who sexuallv offend: Evaluation procedure; and preliminary findings

Abstract

Methods and results of the psychiatric evaluations of 31 professionals who have been accused of sexually inappropriate behaviors within their work context are presented. Eight types of professionals were evaluated; the majority were clergy, physicians, and teachers. Paraphilia was diagnosed in 2676, a nonparaphilic sexual compulsive syndrome in another 2976, and some form of character disorder in 58%. Seven professionals had offended six or more times. The ethical failures of the professionals were diverse and could not simply be explained by psychiatric diagnoses. Approximately half of the professionals were thought to be safe to return to work, often with a recommendation for psychotherapy and monitoring of their professional activities. A recommendation to no longerpractice their professional roles was Qzven for 47% of those evaluated, and the referring agency followed through with the recommendation. Outpatient psychotherapy was recommended for 84% of the sample. Psychotropic medications were occasionally recommended.