Date of Award
Spring 4-29-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department/Program
Forensic Mental Health Counseling
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Cynthia Calkins
Second Reader
Elizabeth Jeglic
Third Advisor
Diana Falkenbach
Abstract
There is limited research examining the processes utilized when making diagnoses in sexual offender civil commitment (SVP) evaluations. The purpose of this research was to examine mental health professionals’ (MHPs) opinions towards, and use of, paraphilic diagnoses in SVP evaluations. In particular, other-specified (OS) paraphilic diagnoses of hebephilia and nonconsent were examined. Results indicate a lack of understanding among MHPs regarding how to recognize and apply OS paraphilic diagnoses. Findings also provide insight into how and why MHPs choose to diagnose OS paraphilias, demonstrating a high level of reliance on documentation. Results indicate the existence of an adversarial allegiance among MHPs diagnosing paraphilias in SVP evaluations. These findings advance our understanding of how OS paraphilias are understood by MHPs and provide insight into the diagnostic processes utilized in SVP evaluations. Policy implications and suggestions for future research are explored.
Recommended Citation
Allan, Cecilia, "Paraphilias: A Survey of Experts" (2020). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/144