"I kind of find that out by accident": probation staff experiences of pharmacological treatment for sexual preoccupation and hypersexuality

Journal article


Swaby, H., Winder, B., Manby, E., Edwards, H. and Lievesley, R. 2018. "I kind of find that out by accident": probation staff experiences of pharmacological treatment for sexual preoccupation and hypersexuality. Journal of Forensic Practice. 25 (3), pp. 1-31. https://doi.org/10.1108/jfp-09-2017-0036
AuthorsSwaby, H., Winder, B., Manby, E., Edwards, H. and Lievesley, R.
Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the views and experiences of probation staff working with individuals convicted of a sexual offence who have been prescribed medication to manage sexual arousal (MMSA).

Design/methodology/approach
Semi-structured interviews were utilised with a sample of probation staff (offender supervisors and managers, n=12), who supervise individuals convicted of a sexual offence, either in prison, or post-release in the community. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings
Two main themes emerged: barriers for probation staff and suspicious but hopeful. Theme 1 encapsulates factors that prevent probation staff from engaging with MMSA; theme 2 highlighted the samples’ uncertainty and mistrust of the use of medication as a potential tool for risk management and scepticism about individuals’ motivations, particularly in the community.

Research limitations/implications
The main limitation of this study was the differing levels of knowledge the sample had about MMSA and their subsequent ability to discuss MMSA other than in a theoretical sense.

Practical implications
Practical implications include the need for further training for probation staff, improved collaboration between departments and ongoing support for staff to support the success of the MMSA intervention.

Originality/value
This study offers a novel perspective on MMSA – that of the probation staff supervising prisoners taking MMSA. This has not been explored before, and the findings and associated implications are of importance for the treatment and care of those convicted of sexual offences.

Keywordssexual offending ; qualitative research; medication to manage sexual arousing
Year2018
JournalJournal of Forensic Practice
Journal citation25 (3), pp. 1-31
PublisherEmerald
ISSN2050-8794
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1108/jfp-09-2017-0036
Web address (URL)https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/32532/
https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/JFP-09-2017-0036/full/html
http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85040112212&partnerID=MN8TOARS
Output statusPublished
Publication dates09 Jan 2018
Publication process dates
Deposited10 Mar 2023
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