The Lived Experiences of Parents and Guardians of Juvenile Sexual Offenders

Date of Conferral

11-10-2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Counselor Education and Supervision

Advisor

Jason Patton

Abstract

Juveniles with sexually inappropriate behaviors continues to be a growing problem in United States society. For counselors working with this population to be effective in terms of treatment of juvenile sexual offenders (JSO), it is helpful to identify and use resources to aid them starting with their families. The purpose of this qualitative transcendental phenomenological study was to explore and understand lived experiences of parents and guardians of JSOs residing in the state of Alabama. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight parents and guardians of JSOs who had received counseling services for themselves and their families. Data were analyzed using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method and results were organized using Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory. Results indicated that while families of JSOs experience challenges, protective factors and counseling services contribute to positive family support and interactions. Protective factors are conditions or attributes that, when present in families and communities, increase the well-being of children and families and reduce the likelihood of maltreatment. Participants’ experiences may be helpful in addressing negative stigmas and perceptions frequently related to treating JSOs and their families. Results may contribute to positive social change by providing counselor educators and counseling professionals with information to increase an understanding of family dynamics of JSOs, and identify interventions related to protective factors to equip counselors with tools that will help them be effective in working with JSOs and their families.

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