This book presents both a compact summary of the voluminous research on sexual violence and a practical, evidence-based "how-to" treatment guide for mental health practitioners working in clinics and institutions that treat men who are sexually coercive and violent toward others. Those needing intervention may be college students, individuals seeking outpatient help, family batterers, or those who sexually abuse women and children. They may have been arrested for sex crimes or be incarcerated or on probation in sex offender treatment program, though most will never have been arrested. This clearly written and well-structured resource will help clinicians deal with all. The book first reviews research on the prevalence of sexually abusive behavior, along with diagnostic issues, assessment strategies, and risk assessment approaches, and then presents current integrated theories on the causes of sexually violent behavior. The primary focus, however, is the specific emotional and behavioral targets of treatment and the therapist skills and strategies that are effective in reducing sexual victimization. Cultural factors that influence treatment are identified and effective prevention programs for sexual violence are also described and evaluated.
"Dr. Holcomb's book is a straight-forward, objective summary of the state-of-the-art of assessment and treatment of sexually violent sexual offenders, with easy-to-understand guidelines on how to proceed with assessment and treatment. Guidelines are provided for each step and targets for treatment are clearly identified. The book also highlights controversial issues that need further research. I would recommend this book for all clinicians working with sex offenders for either assessment purposes or for treatment purposes. It provides the clinician with an easily understandable model to follow and provides guidelines for successful treatment during the various stages of change." Jerry A. Kasdorf, PhD, Chief Psychologist, Coalinga State Hospital, Coalinga, CA "In this book, Dr. Holcomb combines 35 years of practical experience with a comprehensive review of the literature to provide clinicians with a practical guide to understanding, diagnosing, and treating conditions that lead to the perpetration of sexual violence. Although targeted to professional clinicians working in the field, Dr. Holcomb's clear writing style and thoughtful summary of a complex literature makes this work accessible to others as well. It also offers information on the prevalence of sexual violence, explores myths about sexual violence, and addresses head-on the sometimes hidden issue of sexual coercion as sexual violence. This informative book will be a valuable resource for seasoned clinicians and beginning students alike." Richard N. Gowdy, PhD, Director of Forensic Services, Missouri Department of Mental Health, Jefferson City, MO