The effectiveness of treatment for male sex offenders with learning disabilities: A review of the literature

Abstract

Background. A variety of research designs have been employed to explore the efficacy of the wide range of interventions for sex offenders with learning disabilities. This paper reviews these studies to consider the efficacy of such treatments. Methods. Computerized searches and less formal literature gathering led to the identification of 31 studies that reported outcome. Results. Many of the studies are methodologically flawed through failure to use a control group, small sample size, variations in inclusion criteria and definitions of learning disabilities and sexual offending, and lack of standardized outcome measures. Some credible studies have found better and more durable attitudinal change with treatment lasting at least two years. Conclusion. It is suggested that this area of work has still to establish a rigorous evidence base. The review concludes with some suggestions for future research and a consideration of the continued importance of this research.

Keywords:

• Learning disabilities
• sexual offending
• sex offender interventions
• sex offender treatment
• effectiveness
• literature review