SpecializedAssessmentofJuvenileSexOffenders.pptVIP

Specialized Assessment of Juvenile Sex Offenders Assessment To estimate or determine the significance or importance of something(s) To observe or monitor To evaluate In the traditional sense and in most other contexts, assessment is generally considered to be a clinical event When considering management of juvenile sex offenders, assessment should reflect a process that extends far beyond the role of clinicians Assessment data comes from a variety of sources and at various points of the management process Assessment Data Sources Interviews with juveniles Interviews with parents/caregivers Collateral interviews and contacts Record reviews Psychological tests and inventories Sex offense-specific measures Selective use of psychophysiological tests Risk assessment Multi-disciplinary observation and monitoring Why a Specialized and Ongoing Process? While the label “sex offender” implies that these juveniles are the same, in actuality they are a heterogeneous and diverse population Levels of risk and types of needs are not static – they change over time We must continuously and systematically assess and monitor the strengths and needs of juveniles and their families The cumulative data – collected over time – greatly enhances our ability to effectively meet the needs of juveniles, families, victims, and communities Assessments PromoteInformed Decisionmaking Continuum of Care to Match Risk Level of Juveniles Example of Risk/Need Matching: Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice Individualized Assessment DJJ Risk Assessment DJJ Sex Offender Risk Checklist Psychosexual Evaluation J-SOAP CANS-SD Case Management Protocols Community or residential placement Type and intensity of supervision and other interventions Readiness for stepdown/termination of treatment and supervision services General Process Issues for Professionals Focus on rapport Avoid becoming an adversary Create a safe atmosphere Allow for sharing of questions or concerns Remain non-judgmental in l