This course is the first part of a two-part series and is designed to be an introductory overview of sex offenders. The course content explores deviant sexual behaviors and, more specifically, theories about sex offenders, and what is known about recidivism. This course is designed to provide readers with current research and ethical issues facing social workers and mental health practitioners.

The second course titled "Part II - Sex Offenders: Treatment and Community Management" will explore how to manage and treat known sex offenders living in the community. The main topics include: (a) the ethical and civil rights issues; (b) critical components of effective community management; (c) critical components of treatment; and (d) community reintegration.

It is important to point out that the field of sex offender research is young, and professionals who work with this population can barely keep up with the published material. These two modules are designed to be an overview for mental health professionals, professional social workers, and others who are looking to increase their understanding of sexual deviant behaviors and be a more effective part of a treatment team. Both modules provide current research and ethical issues facing those who work with sex offenders.

After completing the course, the reader will better understand:

• The definition of common terms.



• Personal perspectives towards sexual offenders.



• Common types of deviant sexual behaviors.



• What is known about crossover sexual behaviors.



• What is known about demographics of sexual offenders.



• What can motivate an individual to sexually offend with children.



• What is known about sex offender recidivism?