Preventing a relapse after a sexual offense with circles of support

Ensuring that people who have committed a sexual offense do not reoffend is the goal of sociology alumnus Simon Cats and his colleagues at Reclassering Nederland (the Dutch Probation Service). One of the tools they use for this purpose is called Circles of Support, Cooperation, and Accountability (COSA).

Sex offenders who return to society after their conviction often face difficulties. Family and friends have severed ties, neighbors protest their presence, and employers are generally reluctant to hire them. While these reactions are understandable, they are concerning from the perspective of recidivism. Research shows that social isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for relapse.

Social Contacts

For this reason, Reclassering Nederland started COSA (Circles of Support, Cooperation, and Accountability) in 2009. Sociology alumnus Simon Cats, a unit manager at the probation service, explains, "The idea is that volunteers, together with a former sex offender — referred to as the core member — engage in social activities or visit the core member. The core member works on predefined goals, which usually revolve around improving social skills: meeting new people, establishing and maintaining contact, joining an association, and so on. The circles are a safe environment in which you can practice these skills."

Identifying Risks

The circles also have a signaling function. "Volunteers hold the core members accountable for their responsibilities. What should they do and what not? Are they making the right choices? Volunteers are trained to detect risky behavior early on. If necessary, they can involve the so-called outer circle through the circle coordinator. The outer circle consists of a group of professionals, including a probation officer, a therapist, and a community police officer. The outer circle can intervene if needed."

Safety First

For Cats, the safety of the volunteers is paramount. "First, we assess whether core members are suitable as COSA participants. Certain personality traits such as severe aggression or psychopathy are excluded. In addition, volunteers undergo mandatory training, and clear agreements are made, for instance about visiting the core member. The most important thing is that volunteers never do anything they are not comfortable with. A circle coordinator is available 24/7 for volunteers to express their concerns or seek guidance if necessary."

Volunteers Needed

Cats is still looking for new volunteers. No specific qualifications are required. "We ask people to participate in COSA as individuals, not as professionals. What is important is that people can separate the person from the offense and that they enjoy working with other volunteers. We always try to form circles with diversity in gender, age, background, interests, and qualities. A diverse group can offer a core member valuable lessons."