The Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II) is a checklist whose purpose is to aid in the systematic review of risk factors that have been identified in the professional literature as being associated with sexual and criminal offending. It is designed to be used with boys in the age range of 12 to 18 who have been adjudicated for sexual offenses, as well as non-adjudicated youths with a history of sexually coercive behavior.
Validity of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II) in a sample of urban minority youth.
Martinez, Ricardo, et.al.
Criminal Justice and Behavior, Vol 34(10), Oct, 2007. pp. 1284-1295.
Abstract:
Despite recent advances in risk assessment procedures, relatively little research has targeted validation of procedures with sexually offending minority youth. The current study used retrospective coding of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II; Prentky & Righthand, 2003) with a group of 60 male youth of mostly Latino and African American ethnicity. Correlational and receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses were used to test the J-SOAP-II’s relationship with and accuracy in predicting general reoffense, sexual reoffense, and treatment compliance. The J-SOAP-II total score was significantly correlated with all three of these outcome variables, and ROC analyses demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in predicting general (area under the curve [AUC] = .76) and sexual reoffending (AUC = .78). There was mixed support for the J-SOAP-II individual subscales, with Dynamic subscales consistently outperforming Static subscales. The implications of this research for juvenile sex-offender risk assessments are discussed.
Assessing risk for violence in adolescents who have sexually offended: A comparison of the J-SOAP-II, J-SORRAT-II, and SAVRY.
Viljoen, Jodi L., et.al.
Criminal Justice and Behavior, Vol 35(1), Jan, 2008. pp. 5-23.
Abstract:
As the youth justice system has evolved, clinicians have been increasingly asked to make judgments about the likelihood that a youth who has committed a sexual offense will reoffend. However, there is an absence of well-validated tools to assist with these judgments. This study examined the ability of the Juvenile Sexual Offense Recidivism Risk Assessment Tool-II (J-SORRAT-II), Structured Assessment of Violence Risk in Youth (SAVRY), and Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II) to predict violent behavior in 169 male youth who were admitted to a residential adolescent sex offender program. Total scores on the SAVRY and J-SOAP-II significantly predicted nonsexual violence but none of the instruments predicted sexual violence. The J-SOAP-II and SAVRY were less effective in predicting violent reoffending in youth aged 15 and younger than in older youth. The implications of these findings are discussed.
An examination of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act as applied to juveniles: Evaluating the ability to predict sexual recidivism.
Caldwell, Michael F., et.al.
Psychology, Public Policy, and Law, Vol 14(2), May, 2008. pp. 89-114.
Abstract:
The recently enacted Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act will expand and standardize the registration of adolescent sex offenders. To evaluate the effectiveness of this and similar legislation, the authors assessed 91 juvenile males who had been adjudicated for a sexual felony offense and 174 juvenile males who had no history of sexual offending with several risk measures. On admission to treatment, all participants were assessed with the Psychopathy Checklist: Youth Version (PCL:YV; A. E. Forth, D. Kosson, & R. D. Hare, 2003). The Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II; R. A. Prentky & S. Righthand, 2003), 3 state-developed risk protocols (from Wisconsin, Texas, and New Jersey), and the tier designation embedded in the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act of 2006 (SORNA) were coded from the sex offender participants’ records. Participants were followed for an average of 71.6 months (SD = 18.1 months) to determine charges for general, violent, and sexual offenses. Results showed inconsistencies in risk designations between the J-SOAP-II, SORNA tier, and state risk measures, and none, except for the PCL:YV, significantly predicted new general, violent, or sexual offense charges. Policy and legal implications concerning the assessment of adolescent sex offenders are discussed.
Predicting risk of sexual recidivism in juveniles: Predictive validity of the J-SOAP-II.
Prentky, Robert A., et.al.
Assessment and treatment of sex offenders: A handbook. Beech, Anthony R., (Ed); Craig, Leam A., (Ed); Browne, Kevin D., (Ed); pp. 265-290; New York, NY, US: John Wiley & Sons Ltd; 2009. xxvii, 582 pp.
Abstract:
Despite the ample concern about the risk posed by juvenile sexual offenders, not to mention the copious literature, both clinical and empirical, on risk predictors that may be associated with recidivism among juvenile sexual offenders, there are, to the best of our knowledge, only three empirically-driven programs aimed at developing and validating a risk assessment instrument for sexually abusive youth. Although some progress has been made, this domain of research is very much in its infancy. To the best of our knowledge, there have only been six peer-reviewed reports published. Perhaps more to the point, there are only four follow-up studies that have reported predictive accuracy using Receiver Operating Characteristics analysis (ROC values), and only one has appeared in a peer-reviewed journal. In the balance of this chapter, we report on and discuss a validity study conducted on one such scale, the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II; Prentky & Righthand, 2003). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first use of the J-SOAP with a child welfare sample and the first application of the J-SOAP to pre-adolescents. Whether it is the J-SOAP-II or some other promising alternative, conducting the minimal research necessary to develop a reliable and accurate method of assessing risk of sexual aggression in adolescents must be a high priority given the laws that have been implemented to curb such behavior.
Assessing youth who sexually offended: The predictive validity of the ERASOR, J-SOAP-II, and YLS/CMI in a non- Western context.
Chu, Chi Meng, et.al.
Sexual Abuse: Journal of Research and Treatment, Vol 24(2), Apr, 2012. pp. 153-174.
Abstract:
Recent research suggested that the predictive validity of adult sexual offender risk assessment measures can be affected when used cross-culturally, but there is no published study on the predictive validity of risk assessment measures for youth who sexually offended in a non-Western context. This study compared the predictive validity of three youth risk assessment measures (i.e., the Estimate of Risk of Adolescent Sexual Offense Recidivism [ERASOR], the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II [J-SOAP-II], and the Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory [YLS/CMI]) for sexual and nonviolent recidivism in a sample of 104 male youth who sexually offended within a Singaporean context (Mfollow-up = 1,637 days; SDfollow-up = 491). Results showed that the ERASOR overall clinical rating and total score significantly predicted sexual recidivism but only the former significantly predicted time to sexual reoffense. All of the measures (i.e., the ERASOR overall clinical rating and total score, the J-SOAP-II total score, as well as the YLS/CMI) significantly predicted nonsexual recidivism and time to nonsexual reoffense for this sample of youth who sexually offended. Overall, the results suggest that the ERASOR appears to be suited for assessing youth who sexually offended in a non-Western context, but the J-SOAP-II and the YLS/CMI have limited utility for such a purpose.
Another piece of the puzzle: Psychometric properties of the J-SOAP-II.
Fanniff, Amanda M., Letourneau, Elizabeth J.
Sexual Abuse: Journal of Research and Treatment, Vol 24(4), Aug, 2012. pp. 378-408.
Abstract:
The authors reviewed nine studies examining psychometric properties of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol–II (J-SOAP-II) and examined the psychometric properties of the J-SOAP-II when items were scored based on probation records obtained at or near disposition and prior to treatment. Data from 73 boys ages 12 to 17 who participated in a larger randomized clinical trial informed this study. Reliability (internal consistency and interrater agreement) and validity (concurrent, discriminant, and predictive) were examined. Scale 1, Sexual Drive/Preoccupation, was characterized by adequate reliability and concurrent validity but did not predict scores on a measure of concerning sexual behavior. This is consistent with seven studies that failed to find evidence of predictive validity using measures of sexual recidivism. Also consistent with the literature, Scale 2, Impulsive/Antisocial Behavior, performed well with respect to nearly all psychometric properties including predictive validity. Review of remaining scales and scores and clinical policy implications are discussed.
Review of risk assessment instruments for juvenile sex offenders: What is next?
Hempel, Inge, et.al.
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, Vol 57(2), Feb, 2013. pp. 208-228.
Abstract:
Risk assessment is considered to be a key element in the prevention of recidivism among juvenile sex offenders (JSOs), often by imposing long-term consequences based on that assessment. The authors reviewed the literature on the predictive accuracy of six well-known risk assessment instruments used to appraise risk among JSOs: the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II), Juvenile Sexual Offence Recidivism Risk Assessment Tool-II (J-SORRAT-II), Estimate of Risk of Adolescent Sexual Offence Recidivism (ERASOR), Juvenile Risk Assessment Scale (JRAS), Structured Assessment of Violent Risk in Youth (SAVRY), and Hare Psychopathy Checklist:Youth Version (PCL:YV). Through a systematic search, 19 studies were reviewed. Studies showed differences in the predictive accuracies for general, violent, and sexual recidivism, and none of the instruments showed unequivocal positive results in predicting future offending. Not unexpectedly, the accuracy of the SAVRY and PCL:YV appeared to be weaker for sexual recidivism compared with specialized tools such as the J-SOAP-II or the ERASOR. Because of the rapid development of juveniles, it is questionable to impose long-term restrictions based on a risk assessment only. New challenges in improving risk assessment are discussed.
Treatment impact of an integrated sex offender program as measured by J-SOAP-II.
Rehfuss, Mark C., et.al.
Journal of Correctional Health Care, Vol 19(2), Apr, 2013. pp. 113-123.
Abstract:
Despite the increase in juvenile sex offending in society and the significant growth in the number of treatment programs, relatively few studies have examined the effectiveness of these programs. This study examined the effectiveness of an integrated sex offender program on a sample of 309 adjudicated male sex offenders in a juvenile correctional facility using the dynamic scale score of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol II (J-SOAP-II). The youth participated in one of the three treatment groups characterized by length of treatment and risk of recidivism: low risk (0 to 9 months), moderate risk (9 to 23 months), and high risk (23 to 56 months). A significant decrease in the dynamic scale scores of the J-SOAP-II was found only for the moderate treatment group (9 to 23 months).
Die Einschätzung des Rückfallrisikos bei sexuell auffälligen Kindern und Jugendlichen anhand standardisierter Prognoseinstrumente.
Translated Title: The accuracy of standardized risk assessment instruments for the prediction of recidivism in accused juveniles who sexually offended.
Rettenberger, Martin., et.al.
Kindheit und Entwicklung: Zeitschrift für Klinische Kinderpsychologie, Vol 23(4), 2014. pp. 210-219.
Abstract:
The present study examines the predictive accuracy of standardized risk assessment instruments for the prediction of recidivism in a sample of young alleged sex offenders (N = 80) in pretrial and pretreatment settings. For risk assessment purposes, the Structured Assessment of Violence Risk in Youth (SAVRY), the Estimate of Risk of Adolescent Sexual Offense Recidivism (ERASOR), and the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II) were used. The results of the present study show that these instruments, which were originally developed for officially sanctioned (i. e., convicted) juvenile offenders, are also predictive in a sample of young accused juveniles who sexually offended. However, the risk assessment instruments yielded sufficient predictive validity indices only for the prediction of general criminal and violent recidivism and failed to predict significantly sexually motivated recidivism.
Baby with the bath water: Response to Fanniff and Letourneau.
Hecker, Jeffrey E.
Sexual Abuse: Journal of Research and Treatment, Vol 26(5), Oct, 2014. pp. 395-400.
Abstract:
Fanniff and Letourneau concluded that neither their review of the published literature nor their own investigation supported the use of Scale 1 of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol–II (J-SOAP-II). I argue that empirical findings on Scale 1 are mixed and that there is more support in the literature than one might conclude from reading Fanniff and Letourneau. Their negative conclusions about Scale 1 are based on a flawed literature review as well as problematic methods in their own investigation.
Keep testing the waters: Fanniff and Letourneau reply.
Fanniff, Amanda M.
Sexual Abuse: Journal of Research and Treatment, Vol 26(5), Oct, 2014. pp. 401-405.
Abstract:
Hecker raises a number of important considerations in interpreting the review of literature and empirical research presented in Fanniff and Letourneau’s article ‘Another Piece of the Puzzle: Psychometric Properties of the J-SOAP-II.’ Despite these considerations and the publication of new research in the interim, the current authors continue to urge caution in the interpretation of Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II) scores in disposition evaluations, largely due to the serious consequences that youth face in this context.
Predictive validity of the J-SOAP-II: Does accuracy differ across settings?
Martinez, Ricardo, et.al.
The International Journal of Forensic Mental Health, Vol 14(1), Jan, 2015. pp. 56-65.
Abstract:
Court and mental health workers are frequently asked to determine which juvenile sex offenders (JSOs) are most likely to reoffend. One instrument commonly used to guide decision making with JSOs is the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II). However, research utilizing this instrument has often generated contradictory results, perhaps related to the types of samples studied. The current study sought to compare the predictive accuracy of the J-SOAP-II across two samples of JSOs (a medium-security correctional setting versus an unlocked residential sex offender treatment program). Although the overall predictive accuracy for identifying post-release arrests for sexual offenses (i.e., sexual recidivism) was modest (AUC = .64) and not statistically significant, differences emerged with regard to the accuracy of some individual scales and subscales. Similarly, while no significant differences in predictive accuracy were observed between the two study sites, a number of interesting findings were observed. These findings highlight the need to consider risk assessment measures in light of the setting in which they are used in order to maximize predictive accuracy and optimize treatment and dispositional decision making.
Changes in J-SOAP-II and SAVRY scores over the course of residential, cognitive-behavioral treatment for adolescent sexual offending.
Viljoen, Jodi L. et.al.
Sexual Abuse: Journal of Research and Treatment, Vol 29(4), Jun, 2017. pp. 342-374.
Abstract:
Although the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol–II (J-SOAP-II) and the Structured Assessment of Violence Risk in Youth (SAVRY) include an emphasis on dynamic, or modifiable factors, there has been little research on dynamic changes on these tools. To help address this gap, we compared admission and discharge scores of 163 adolescents who attended a residential, cognitive-behavioral treatment program for sexual offending. Based on reliable change indices, one half of youth showed a reliable decrease on the J-SOAP-II Dynamic Risk Total Score and one third of youth showed a reliable decrease on the SAVRY Dynamic Risk Total Score. Contrary to expectations, decreases in risk factors and increases in protective factors did not predict reduced sexual, violent nonsexual, or any reoffending. In addition, no associations were found between scores on the Psychopathy Checklist:Youth Version and levels of change. Overall, the J-SOAP-II and the SAVRY hold promise in measuring change, but further research is needed.
Testing the validity of criminal risk assessment tools in sexually abusive youth.
Barra, Steffen, et.al.
Abstract (English):
Although accurate risk appraisals are mandatory to provide effective treatment to juveniles who have sexually offended (JSOs), the current knowledge on the validity of risk assessment instruments for JSOs is inconclusive. We compared the predictive validities of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol II (J-SOAP II), the Estimate of Risk of Adolescent Sexual Offense Recidivism (ERASOR), and the Violence Risk Appraisal Guide-Revised (VRAG-R) scores concerning sexual, nonsexual-violent, and general criminal recidivism (based on both official and nonregistered reoffenses) in a consecutive sample of 597 male JSOs (Mage = 14.47 years, SDage = 1.57 years) while accounting for different recidivism periods, offense severities, and cumulative burden of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curves and Cox regression analyses indicated that the tools allowed valid predictions of recidivism according to their intended purposes: The ERASOR was best suited to predict sexual recidivism within 0.5 and 3 years, the J-SOAP II was valid for predictions of sexual and nonsexual-violent recidivism within these recidivism periods, and the VRAG-R showed potential strengths in predicting nonsexual-violent recidivism, especially when committed above age 18. Elevated offense severity and burden of ACEs impeded predictive accuracies of the J-SOAP II and the VRAG-R, particularly in case of sexual recidivism. Our findings emphasize that risk assessment for JSOs must not rely solely on scores derived from risk assessment instruments, but a comprehensive consideration of a JSOs offense severity and psychosocial adversities is additionally necessary to approach accurate risk appraisals.
Long-Term Predictive Validity of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol–II: Research and Practice Implications.
Schwartz-Mette, R. A., Righthand, S., Hecker, J., Dore, G., & Huff, R. (2020).
Sexual Abuse, 32(5), 499–520. https://doi-org.lopes.idm.oclc.org/10.1177/1079063219825871
Abstract:
The current study evaluated the predictive validity of the Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol–II (J-SOAP-II) scores in a sample of juveniles who recidivated sexually or nonsexually as adults. Participants included 166 juveniles who had previously sexually offended and were followed into adulthood for an average of 10.75 years. Results of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analyses supported the predictive validity of the J-SOAP-II Total Score, Scale 1, and Static Score in regard to adult sexual recidivism, and predictive validity was found for all J-SOAP-II scores (except Scale 1) in regard to adult nonsexual recidivism. Implications for future research on the assessment of risk factors and treatment needs for adolescents who commit sexual offenses are discussed.