Training Description
The assessment and treatment of female sex offenders is an emerging field with unique opportunities and challenges. In contrast to male sex offenders, there are few empirically-identified recidivism risk factors and management strategies for females who commit sexual offenses. This two-hour presentation provides an overview of the current research literature related to this unique population, discussing differences between male and female sex offenders as well as the limitations associated with conducting risk and needs assessments for females. A “best practice” approach, using structured professional judgment and a gendered theoretical perspective, is discussed as a way forward. Finally, core components of building treatment models are identified, and general clinical considerations when providing treatment to female sex offenders are reviewed.
Trainer Biography
Brad Allen, JD, PhD is a licensed psychologist with the State of Wisconsin Department of Health Services. He has been a practicing clinician for over 25 years, over which time he has received advanced degrees in law, psychology, sociology, and epidemiology. In addition to having extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of sexual offenders, he has an eclectic research background publishing in the areas of developmental disabilities and gerontology. Dawn Pflugradt, PsyD is a licensed psychologist with the State of Wisconsin Department of Health Services. She also serves as Assistant Professor at the Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology, where she teaches courses in developmental psychology, personality development, and ethics. In addition to her years of clinical experience, Dr. Pflugradt has published numerous articles and book chapters in the areas sex offender assessment and treatment as well as pediatrics. Her current research focuses on female sex offender assessment and treatment.
Learning Objectives
This training is designed to help you:
- Identify the common characteristics the female sexual offenders share based on epidemiological studies.
- Discuss the three principal pathways to offending for female sex offenders.
- Understand the differences between a gendered and a gender specific theory.
- Provide a rationale for utilizing a gendered theory with female sex offenders.
- Identify key components of a female sex offender treatment program.