CHEMICAL CASTRATION OF MALE SEX OFFENDERS
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Authors
Overly, Alissa Jo
Issue Date
2011
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Chemical castration, the administration of medication designed to reduce sexual activity, has been used around the world as an alternative punishment for sex offenders. This study will examine the use of chemical castration of a sex offender in attempt to decrease the recidivism rate of these offenders by reducing their physical sexual urges. There are ethical and scientific debates over the utilization of this sanction due to the constitutional assurance to protect against cruel and unusual punishment. Due to the side effects, this method of sexual deterrence still remains controversial regardless of the reports of low levels of medical complications. Chemical castration has recently gained recognition in the United States as a sanction for violent sexual crimes. In addition to sexual deterrence, the cost effectiveness of administering chemical castration while on alternative supervision, in lieu of incarceration, has proven to be a beneficial alternative to taxpayers. More definite and longitudinal research is necessary in the field as a whole, to determine the future of this rehabilitative method.