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Conduct of Socially Sensitive Research: Sex Offenders as Participants

NCJ Number
150289
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1994) Pages: 325-340
Author(s)
K J Hall; C A Osborn
Date Published
1994
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article examines some extra-research variables inherent in conducting community-based research with child molesters and other sex offenders; these include issues such as informed consent with court-referred participants, confidentiality when interagency collaboration is necessary, and duty to take proper care.
Abstract
The issues are discussed in the context of a controlled group outcome study on the effectiveness of two methods of community-based treatment for child molesters. The project's design called for two treatment approaches: behavioral therapy, rational-emotive therapy, and relapse prevention or rational-emotive therapy only. The researchers addressed methods for establishing the scientific credibility of the project, responding to client grievances, dealing with client crises, and protecting personnel and the surrounding community. The discussion concludes that the procedures recommended in the context of this research project as an important step in ensuring the viability of other socially sensitive research projects. Chart, notes, and 14 references (Author abstract modified)