NCJ Number
214660
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: 2006 Pages: 105-117
Date Published
2006
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study explored whether child molesters and rapists could be distinguished from one another based on their self-figure drawings.
Abstract
Results indicated a couple of main differences between the self-figure drawings of rapists and those of child molesters. The drawings of rapists were marked by more indicators of violent aggressive behavior traits than the drawings of child molesters. The drawings of child molesters, however, contained more exaggeration and emphasis of the penis than drawings of rapists. On the other hand, indicators of anxiety in the drawings were not significantly different for the two groups. The authors suggest that drawings may be useful in differentiating between offenders who are violent and those who are less violent and therefore potential candidates for specific pharmacotherapy combined with psychological treatment. Participants were 19 rapists and 22 child molesters serving prison sentences of between 1 and 6 years. Participants were given a blank sheet of paper and a pencil and were asked to draw themselves with no further instructions offered. The drawings were independently analyzed by two social workers for indicators of aggression. Future research should broaden the understanding of how self-image drawings can inform treatment assignment for sexual offenders. Table, figures, references