A community-based treatment center for sex offenders in Israel: A treatment evaluation of the treatment completers

Background: The center for treatment of adult sex offenders was the first of its kind in Israel and was established as an experimental project. Our purpose was to explore the center’s treatment efficacy. Methods: There was assessment of clients throughout the course of their treatment and follow up for an average of 4.2 years afterwards. In total, the participants comprised 41 adult male sex offenders who had completed the program. Treatment evaluation was made by examining changes in various target areas related to dynamic risk factors, with a focus on CTTs, including post-treatment recidivism rates. The assessment of treatment progress focused on accepting responsibility, victim awareness and empathy, emotional regulation, self-monitoring, offense supportive attitudes, and intimacy/relationship skills and social competence. Data from the Israel Police on criminal records and recidivism rates were also analyzed. Results: Results show that most of the clients appeared to benefit from the treatment. They assumed more responsibility and reached a better understanding of the severity of their actions and of their personal dangerousness. Use of defense mechanisms typical of sex offenders was reduced and risk factors were recognized. In addition, based on police records, low recidivism rates were found. Conclusions: Results raise issues of the viability of existing therapeutic strategies and resource allocation for treating sex offenders defined as low vs. high risk.