While initially, the sex offender may be relieved to be in therapy rather than in prison, such clients often lose motivation, become hostile, and use silence or denial as a means of maintaining control and dignity. Additionally, sex offenders may use denial because the stereotype of the molester is incongruent with their self-images or because they are unable to tolerate the psychological pain associated with an admission of the damage done to the child victim. Therapists should assure such clients of their concern for the client's well-being. The therapist also should be caring, empathetic, nonjudgmental, and positive about the possibility of treatment success. Although the reporting requirement for further child sexual abuse may engender suspicion or hostility in sex offenders, therapists must obey the law. 2 references.