Treating cognitive distortions with EMDR: A case study of a sex offender

Case study on using EMDR in the treatment of cognitive distortions in sex offenders who themselves have been victimized in their childhood.

Article Abstract

“This single-case study illustrates how eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can be of use in the treatment of cognitive distortions in sex offenders who themselves have been victimized in their childhood. A 56-year-old man did not perceive his childhood sexual experiences as negative. As a consequence, he could not see any harm in his own offending in later life. He spent one year in cognitive-behavioral group therapy barely making any progress. After nine EMDR sessions, most cognitive distortions appeared to be resolved. He was able to attend his group sessions in a more open and involved manner.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Purchase/Subscription Required

ten Hoor, N. M. (2013). Treating cognitive distortions with EMDR: A case study of a sex offender. The International Journal of Forensic Mental Health, 12(2), 139-148. https://doi.org/10.1080/14999013.2013.791350