Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Henry R. Cellini

Abstract

Criminal justice systems have attempted to include psychiatric history as a component for consideration when it comes to punishment and rehabilitation. Criminal justice systems have created various programs to address the psychological components of some behaviors to address specific actions. These programs are intended to consider an individual’s psychological history and address the underlying causes to eliminate future criminal behavior. This study focused on professionals working in civil commitment programs for sexually violent predators. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of professionals working in these programs and gain an understanding of their attitudes, perspectives, and opinions. The theoretical framework used for this study was the integrated theory of sexual offender treatment. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with purposive sampling of 13 professionals. This data were then coded using NVivo software. Each of the 18 interview questions was analyzed and produced results specific to those questions. Overall findings were mixed showing varying opinions about these programs and common opinions were far more positive than anticipated. Recommendations included implementing transitional programs for offenders, step down programs for offenders, increased effort to improve staff retention, include time limits for these programs, and elimination of these programs. These findings have implications for positive social change by improving outcomes leading to reduced offenses, lowering overall cost to the states, and providing safer communities to all citizens

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

 
COinS