Assessing the generalization of relapse-prevention behaviors of sexual offenders diagnosed with an intellectual disability.

ABSTRACT

The generalization of relapse-prevention skills of 10 males residing at a state facility for sexual offenders diagnosed with an intellectual disability was assessed in the community using three different experimental probes (a) treatment staff (TS), (b) nontreatment staff (NTS), and (c) community adults (CAs). Results indicated a decrease in compliance from the TS to NTS and CAs, with the lowest levels of generalization displayed by offenders who were older and displayed a wider range of paraphilias. The degree of generalization also varied as a function of the contingencies for prevention-plan noncompliance, with higher rates of generalization occurring for violations that were more severely consequated. The implications of the findings for future research in promoting the generalization of relapse-prevention skills of sexual offenders, in general, and those who also exhibit intellectual disabilities, in particular, are discussed.