Relationship Frames in Action: A Case Study of the Sex Offender Relationship Frame Model

Abstract

A great deal of research has focused on attempting to investigate the cognitions of child sexual offenders. However, a greater emphasis is required on beliefs, actions, values and their interactions. The Sex Offender Relationship Frame model, derived by grounded theory using a sample of adult males incarcerated for child sexual offences, represents a useful framework for the role of values in the reasoning and decision-making of offenders, and offers important theoretical and treatment implications. This article employs a case study methodology utilising four descriptive cases in order to comprehensively illustrate each of the four relationship frames identified within this model. The detailed cases demonstrate the importance of considering the role of values held by offenders in furthering both our understanding of child sexual offending and also our treatment practices.