Circles of Support and Accountability: How and Why They Work for Sex Offenders

Abstract

Circles of Support and Accountability (COSA) provide re-integrating sex offenders with a group of trained volunteers who support this rehabilitation process. Effect studies show promising results in reduction of recidivism. This study provides a theoretical underpinning and empirical validation of the COSA intervention model, based on a grounded theory analysis of 38 circle narratives, reflecting the experiences of 21 circles. Four circle functions appear to be essential, with inclusion being most important. Inclusion is serving basic human needs and is motivating the sex offender to allow monitoring and being held accountable. Program integrity and a positive group development are essential preconditions for circle effectiveness.

Keywords:

• sex offenders
• COSA
• intervention theory
• relapse prevention
• treatment effectiveness
• recidivism

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors thank Reclassering Nederland (the Dutch Probation Organization), COSA volunteers and core members for their cooperation during the research and Stephen Hanvey, CEO Circles UK, for his critical proofreading and commenting on the text. This study has been funded by the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security and the Centre for Public Safety and Criminal Justice of Avans University of Applied Sciences, Den Bosch; Netherland, and the Daphne III Programme for the prevention of violence against women and children of the European Union.

The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the authors and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Commission.