In Their Voices: Perspectives of Incarcerated Sex Offenders on Their Treatment Experiences

Abstract

This article presents findings from a qualitative study evaluating the perspectives of 18 inmates in the North Carolina prison system who completed a treatment program designed for incarcerated sex offenders. Survey data were collected regarding their experiences in treatment and the program-acquired skills they continue to use after treatment. Data analysis used the grounded theory method and 30 codes were collapsed to six themes: most important program aspect; least important aspect; sustained skills; peer experience; therapeutic experience; and participants' recommendations for improvement. We discuss implications for practice and recommendations for future research on improving sex offender treatment.