The process of overcoming denial in sexual offenders

Abstract

This study examined the process by which convicted sexual offenders move out of denial and the factors which influence their decision to admit. Twenty-four convicted sexual offenders were interviewed in focus groups and a further 36 convicted sexual offenders who had previously been in denial of their offences underwent a semi-structured interview which explored their reasoning for reducing defensiveness and leaving denial. The results of content analysis supported the “adaptational” model of denial and identified three groups of factors which appear to influence denial: motivational/insight; threats to self-esteem; and fear of negative, extrinsic consequences. An integrated theoretical model of denial is proposed and implications for future research and the development of a theory-based treatment programme for deniers are proposed.