Problem Sexual Behavior

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Evidence-Based Treatment for Youth With Problem Sexual Behavior

Multisystemic Therapy (MST) provides an intensive, family- and community-based intervention for youth with problem sexual behavior. By addressing risk factors across the family, peer, school, and community systems, MST promotes accountability, improves safety, reduces reoffending, and helps youth remain safely at home and engaged in their communities.

MST offers a suite of evidence-based solutions that support juvenile justice systems:

Multisystemic Therapy (MST®)

Multisystemic Therapy (MST®) is the core evidence-based model on which all MST adaptations are built. It supports child-serving systems by addressing serious behavioral challenges through intensive, family- and community-based intervention that reduces placements and strengthens caregiver capacity.

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MST–Problem Sexual Behavior (MST-PSB®)

MST-PSB® is a specialized adaptation of MST for youth with problem sexual behavior. The model emphasizes safety planning, caregiver supervision, accountability, and skill development while addressing underlying risk factors to prevent reoffense and support healthy development within home and community settings.

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Effective Outcomes for Youth Problem Sexual Behavior

Reduced Sexual and Nonsexual Reoffending

MST-PSB significantly reduces reoffending by addressing the systemic factors that contribute to problem sexual behavior.

Increased Community and Family Safety

Through structured safety planning and caregiver supervision, MST-PSB strengthens protective factors and reduces risk.

Reduced Reliance on Residential Placement

Most youth served remain safely at home, reducing costly residential and institutional care.

Lower System Costs per Youth Served

MST-PSB delivers intensive treatment at a fraction of the cost of residential treatment or incarceration.

Improved Caregiver Accountability and Monitoring

Caregivers develop clear supervision, boundaries, and behavior management skills critical to long-term success.

Reduced Court and System Involvement

Effective early intervention decreases repeated court involvement and long-term system reliance.

Proven Results. Lasting Impact.

With over 90 studies and more than 140 peer-reviewed journal articles, Multisystemic Therapy features the largest body of evidence of successful interventions for high-risk youth.

Featured Resources

How to Become an MST Provider: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide will provide you with information on how to implement a successful program in your community.

Cost Savings Report

Guide to Maintaining Fidelity in Evidence-Based Programs

Ready to bring MST to your community?