Remodeling as Metaphor: Sex Offenders' Perceptions of the Treatment Process

The perceptions of 43 adult male sex offenders were examined to generate a grounded theory of the sexual abuse treatment process. Methodology included interviews, direct observations, and record analysis. Constant comparative analysis was used to collect and analyze data concurrently. The offenders use remodeling as a metaphor for their treatment process; they remodel themselves, their relationships, and their environment, but the foundations of offending are ever present. The remodeling process involves falling apart, taking on, tearing out, rebuilding, doing the upkeep, and moving on. Remodeling as a metaphor offers a concrete, visual, individualized, and safe way to address the treatment process of sex offenders.