The Haworth Press, Inc. More and more juvenile sex offenders are being convicted and sentenced to correctional institutions or placed in the control of the correctional system on probation or some form of monitoring. This generates a need for more and more treatment resources. This book is a summary of the best understanding to date of the distinctive needs of juvenile offenders and the special issues connected to treatment of them. There is not much research evidence so it is not surprising that the book does not depend upon empirical research in presenting recommendations for programs. There is not much available. It is of note that the author rather carefully points out the problems generated by the system in dealing with juveniles. There are so many programs, overlapping jurisdictions, and competing professionals that a juvenile may get lost in the maze of competing areas of responsibility and mandated programs. Trying to negotiate a path through this minefield can be difficult but also one of the most effective things a therapist can do for a young person. This book will help in that venture. It is a comprehensive plan and well presented with thorough coverage of the areas of interest. It does not have the strident hostility of some books on treating sex offenders. With the present state of knowledge this book is a good place to begin. However, a treatment program built on these suggestions ought remain open to the ongoing research and be able to respond as some facts become more clear and what is effective treatment becomes more sharply defined. Reviewed by Ralph Underwager, Institute for Psychological Therapies.
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