Family Experiences of Young Adult Sex Offender Registration

• NCJ Number: 230672
• Journal: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 19 Issue: 2 Dated: March-April 2010 Pages: 204-225
• Author(s): Erin B. Comartin; Poco D. Kernsmith; Bart W. Miles
• Date Published: March 2010
• Length: 22 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the impact on families of having a child placed on the sex offender registry.

Abstract

Since 1994, policies have been instituted throughout the United States that require sex offenders to register their personal information with law enforcement officials (Jacob Wetterling Crimes against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Program, 1994). With the passage of additional laws, this information is now available to the public via the Internet or a request to a police department. These laws have brought about consequences for both the registrants and for members of their families. A focus group was held with four mothers who have sons listed on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry. Psychological and social consequences of registration were found and policy implications are discussed. References (Published Abstract)