NCJ Number
146988
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 2 Issue: 4 Dated: (1993) Pages: 61-68
Date Published
1993
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Two studies are reported that examined generalized empathy in incarcerated and outpatient perpetrators of child sexual abuse.
Abstract
The first study gathered data from 92 incarcerated child molesters in a treatment unit in Rolleston Prison, New Zealand. None had begun the treatment program at the time of the evaluation. Their general empathy was measured using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index, which contained four 10-item subscales. In the second study, 20 child molesters attending the Kingston Sexual Behavior Clinic in Ontario, Canada were matched with nonoffending males recruited from a local government employment agency. Both groups completed the Interpersonal Reactivity Index. Results revealed that incarcerated child molesters were not deficient in general empathy. However, outpatient offender displayed deficits in general empathy compared with matched nonoffenders. Results suggested that the context in which sex offenders are assessed may influence the results. Tables and 10 references