NCJ Number
208607
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 49 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2005 Pages: 48-62
Date Published
February 2005
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study examined the differences between intra-familial and extra-familial child molesters on measures of interpersonal factors and personality disorders.
Abstract
Although the term “child molester” connotes that this category of sex offender is heterogeneous, there is evidence that distinctions can be made among child molesters. The current study examined whether distinctions can be drawn between intra-familial and extra-familial child molesters in terms of parental sensitivity, relational attitude, and personality disorders. Participants were 41 adult male intra-familial child molesters, 43 adult male extra-familial child molesters, and 80 matched control subjects. Participants completed measures of parental bonding, adult attachment, psychosocial development, and personality disorders. Results of LISREL structural analyses indicated that deficits in adult attachment and trust characterize intra-familial child molesters. Intra-familial child molesting was related to relational attitudes as well as to personality disorders, while extra-familial child molesting was only related to personality disorders. The findings indicate that treatment for intra-familial versus extra-familial child molesters should focus on different variables. Future research should continue to refine treatment and intervention approaches for sex offenders. Figures, table, note, references