Healthy Sexuality for Sex Offenders

Abstract

Purpose of the review: This review will examine the current, although limited, literature on the development of healthy sexuality for sex offenders, as well as some of the related controversies surrounding sex offender specific therapies.

Recent findings: Over the last decade, the definition of healthy sexuality has remained elusive while the boundary delineating unhealthy sexuality has radically changed. These changes are not reflected in current approaches to sex offender treatment which continue to focus on suppression of offenders' sexuality. Our attention to the management of sexual behaviors has led to a diminished, and perhaps impoverished, curiosity and understanding of what is driving problematic sexual behavior and also moves us further from an understanding of what leads to "healthy" sexual behavior. It is our contention that a consideration of sex offending behavior through the lens of early childhood trauma will lead to an improvement in our ability to assist these offenders in the development of sexually happier and more fulfilling lives while being able to function within the parameters of society's standards for legal behavior. The sex positive perspective of sex therapy will allow for a broader consideration of what defines and promotes healthy sexual behavior in an offender population.

Keywords: Healthy sexuality; Sex offender specific therapy; Sex therapy; Trauma-informed care.