Not many topics in mental health bring on more emotional intensity than the topic of sexual offending. Topics that raise emotions are ripe for misconceptions and "myths" that just are not supported by the research. Recently the Center for Sexual Offender Management (CSOM) published a list of myths and facts about sexual offending, the offenders, and the victims. Below I have summarized some of the myths and facts about sex offending that CSOM identified. You can contact CSOM for more information on sexual offending by going to their web site at: www.csom.org.

Myth: The majority of sex offenders are caught, convicted, and in prison.
Fact:  Only a fraction of those who commit sexual assault are apprehended and convicted for their crimes. Most convicted sex offenders eventually are released back into the community on parole or probation. Additionally, studies have shown only 12% of rapes are reported and only 32% of sexual assaults against persons 12 and older are reported to law enforcement.

Myth: Most sex offenders re-offend.
Fact:  Re-offense rates vary among different types of sex offenders and are related to specific characteristics of the offender and the offense. It is noteworthy that recidivism rates for sex offenders are lower than for the general criminal population. Specifically regarding child molesters, for example, only 13% of these offenders are likely to re-offend within five years after their conviction for an initial offense. Nevertheless, the devastation of sexual re-offense demands special efforts to reduce the re-offense risk even further.

Myth: Sexual offense rates are higher than ever and continue to climb.
Fact:  The actual rate of reported sexual assaults has decreased slightly in recent years.

Myth: All sex offenders are male.
Fact:  Studies indicate that females commit about 20% of sex offenses against children.

Myth: Sex offenders commit sexual crimes because they are intoxicated.
Fact:  It is unlikely that an individual who otherwise would not commit a sexual assault would do so as a direct result of excessive drinking.

Myth: Children who are sexually assaulted will sexually assault others when they grow up.
Fact:  Most sex offenders were not sexually assaulted as children and most children who are sexually assaulted do not sexually assault others. Among adult sex offenders, about 70% have never been sexually victimized themselves.

Myth: Treatment for sex offenders is ineffective.
Fact:  Research has shown that there is an 8% reduction in the recidivism rate for offenders who participated in treatment. This is a rather small, yet statistically significant reduction in re-offense rates. Additionally, research is demonstrating that sex offenders who start and fail to complete treatment are at increased risk for sexual re-offense.

Here at Psychiatric and Psychological Services we offer services both to victims and to offenders. Currently there are four sex offender treatment groups run by Dave Zachau and Pat Chmura. These groups include both adjudicated offenders under the supervision of the Ohio Adult Parole Authority and those awaiting sentencing for their crimes. It is our desire that through treatment of offenders we can further reduce the sexual victimization of others. And, by offering treatment to the survivors of sexual abuse we hope to facilitate the healing process necessary to help people move on with their lives after the trauma of sexual assault.

David D. Zachau, M.A., L.P.C.C.