Denial is a major obstacle that stands in the way of successfully treating child molesters. This article describes the FoSOD (an acronym for Facets of Sexual Offender Denial), a psychometrically sound measure of the multifaceted construct of denial. Evidence is provided to support and clarify existing denial taxonomies, with the identification of six distinct facets of denial pertaining to the sexual offense itself (including victim harm), extent of behavior, intent, perceived victim desire, planning, and risk of relapse (including sexually deviant preferences). Results demonstrate the reliability and validity of the FoSOD and its subscales for measuring denial in child molesters. Results also suggest how each of the measured facets of denial in contrast with related measures can be used to monitor treatment progress and to better understand the child molester. The FoSOD captures child molesters' attitudes toward their offense and their commitment to changing sexually abusive behavior patterns.
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