In the modern world, many problems require joint solutions. For this purpose, many different programs are being created, the study of which is necessary to spread awareness about them. Thus, this work aims to study the sexually harmful behavior program. Therefore, the study will use an approach to the criteria for evaluating programs based on the literary source Royce et al. “Program evaluation: An introduction to an evidence-based approach.”
The research focuses on the sexually harmful behavior program the William George Agency created. This approach’s primary goal is to assist boys who have committed a sexual offense. Research notes that “it provides a highly structured, closely supervised, therapeutic environment for intensive work with the resident upon offender-specific issues” (“Residential program,” n.d.). Moreover, it is based on providing solutions to interpersonal relationship problems. This also applies to assistance in aspects such as behavior and emotional issues and ensuring a transition to more appropriate social behavior and a way of solving problems.
The first evaluation criterion implies an assessment of the approach’s conformity to the program’s characteristics. Furthermore, it meets the main requirement, which states that the program must provide benefits for the population. Therefore, the initiative under study strives to help young people cope with deviant behavior and meet their treatment needs. Next, it is necessary to investigate the criterion of what has been identified as the need for the chosen program (Royce et al., 2019). The research showed that “addressing social competence, an area in which youthful sex abusers typically present serious deficiencies, as well as psychoeducation, personal accountability, identification and changing of cognitive distortions” (“Residential program,” n.d., para. 5). The need for this approach, is due to the need solutions to the problem of deviant behavior among adolescents and the adjustment of mental and physical injuries that have arisen due to the issue.
As already mentioned, this program was created by the William George Agency. This organization provides a large number of different approaches that solve the most pressing social problems and are all connected with each other to gain the most success. Moreover, it aims to assist with the involvement of clinical, medical, educational, vocal, and recreational services. With the help of this technique, providers can achieve the most effective and positive outcomes that will significantly increase the wellness and well-being of the population.
According to the criteria, the sexually harmful behavior program determines the areas it aims to serve. Therefore, it strives to reduce the number of sexual offenses committed by young people and the need for further medical assistance. This aspect includes the population of individuals and such characteristics as age group, gender, and health issues. Thus, these are men from 12 to 21 with an IQ of more than 70 and a history of committing a sexual crime (“Residential program,” n.d.). Moreover, participants must independently understand that they need treatment, are in contact with reality, and do not have a history of chronic criminal violence. Hence, this program is a good choice for my assignment in this course since, in personal practice, I often encounter work in this age group.
However, despite the positive aspects, this program has some areas of concern. Henceforth, the main thing is the fact that some of the kids do not take it seriously enough. Thus, after taking part in the program, some young people may be dismissive of the initiative and end up going to jail for this offense. In conclusion, according to the criteria, the sexually harmful behavior program is an approach that can provide the most positive expected results for society.
References
Residential program. (n.d.). The William George Agency. Web.
Royce, D., Thyer, B.A., & Padgett, D.K. (2016). Program evaluation: An introduction to an evidence-based approach 6th edition. Cengage Learning.