Clinical applications of the structured assessment of protective factors against sexual offending (SAPROF-SO), Version 1

ABSTRACT The Structured Assessment of PROtective Factors against Sexual Offending (SAPROF-SO) is a new assessment tool designed to capture protective factors for individuals with a history of sexual offenses and aligns with a strengths-based approach to treatment. The SAPROF-SO, Version 1 consists of 14 items across three subscales: Resilience, Adaptive Sexuality, and Prosocial Connection & Reward. The optional fourth subscale, Professional Risk Management, consists of six items. The current paper seeks to provide guidance in the applied clinical use of the SAPROF-SO by addressing three advantages of the use of this instrument: (1) Facilitating engagement: establishing collaborative treatment goals and a therapeutic alliance, especially with clients who remain ambivalent about treatment; (2) Using the SAPROF-SO for risk management decision: determining the readiness for decreased supervision / increased level of privileges and the development of a risk management plan; and (3) Release planning for individuals with special needs. Case examples are provided. PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENT The current paper provides an overview of a new assessment tool, Structured Assessment of PROtective Factors against Sexual Offending (SAPROF-SO), Version 1. The SAPROF-SO is designed to offer clinicians an assessment tool that aligns with a strengths-based approach to treatment, provides a structured assessment of protective factors, and brings balance to risk assessments. The current paper provides clinical guidance in using the SAPROF-SO to increase treatment engagement, assist with risk management decisions, and better assess individuals with special needs.