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Hales ST, Gannon TA. Understanding Sexual Aggression in UK Male University Students: An Empirical Assessment of Prevalence and Psychological Risk Factors. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2022; 34:744-770. [PMID: 34702099 PMCID: PMC9379390 DOI: 10.1177/10790632211051682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
University-based sexual aggression is an international public health issue; however, to date, there have been no formal assessments of the prevalence or psychological indicators associated with the proabuse behaviors of the most common perpetrators at UK universities: heterosexual male students. To facilitate the development of effective primary prevention interventions for domestic students who have sexually harmed, we assess across two empirical studies (Ns = 259 and 295) the psychological risk factors associated with recent sexual aggression amongst two distinct samples of UK male university students. Cumulatively, results highlighted that one in nine participants (11.4%) self-reported recent sexual aggression. These participants could be statistically differentiated from their non-offending peers on various established indicators of general sexual offending, of which logistic regression analyses highlighted atypical sexual fantasies, general aggression, hostility toward women, and rape myth acceptance as being the most reliable predictors. Our data extend the international evidence base by providing the first detailed overview of sexual aggression amongst UK male university students, as well as the psychological risk factors associated with their proabuse behaviors. We discuss the importance of our findings for the development of more effective evidence-based reduction strategies and primary prevention interventions for male students who have sexually harmed.
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2
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Barnes N, Sanchez-Vives MV, Johnston T. On the Practical Use of Immersive Virtual Reality for Rehabilitation of Intimate Partner Violence Perpetrators in Prison. Front Psychol 2022; 13:787483. [PMID: 35651568 PMCID: PMC9150755 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.787483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) allows the user to be immersed in environments in which they can experience situations and social interactions from different perspectives by means of virtual embodiment. In the context of rehabilitation of violent behaviors, a participant could experience a virtual violent confrontation from different perspectives, including that of the victim and bystanders. This approach and other virtual scenes can be used as a useful tool for the rehabilitation of intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetrators, through improvement of their empathic skills or for training in non-violent responses. In this perspective, we revise and discuss the use of this tool in a prison environment for the rehabilitation of IPV perpetrators with a particular focus on practical aspects based on our experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Barnes
- Systems Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,General Directorate of Prison Affairs, Department of Justice, Government of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria V Sanchez-Vives
- Systems Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tania Johnston
- Systems Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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3
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Steel CMS, Newman E, O'Rourke S, Quayle E. Self Perceptions and Cognitions of Child Sexual Exploitation Material Offenders. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2021:306624X211062161. [PMID: 34852672 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x211062161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Identifying the self-perceptions of child sexual exploitation material (CSEM) consumers compared to a reference population of non-consumers is critical in establishing distorted cognitions that may not be elucidated when comparison is made with groups who have committed other offenses. This exploratory work utilizes a quantitative approach toward identifying how individuals previously convicted of child pornography offenses view CSEM and CSEM offending, using a group of non-offenders as a baseline. The target group was selected based on their inclusion in two sex offender registries for child pornography offenses (n = 78). A reference group of non-offenders (n = 254) was gender-matched from a subset of a prior study evaluating the public perceptions of CSEM. Both groups were adults located within the United States and were asked questions using an online survey about their general perceptions of CSEM, their endorsement of CSEM beliefs, and their opinions related to the legality of various forms of CSEM and associated laws and sentencing guidelines. The study found that CSEM consumers more accurately assessed risks associated with CSEM offending, but that they exhibited potential minimization-based cognitive distortions related to severity and victimization and more strongly endorsed child erotica and virtual child pornography being legal. Additionally, they endorsed treatment over prison, and were strongly opposed to sex offender registration for child pornography offenses. The results provide potential treatment targets, including behavioral areas that may be pathways to CSEM offending.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad M S Steel
- University of Edinburgh, UK
- George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
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4
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Jones SJ, Ó Ciardha C, Elliott IA. Identifying the Coping Strategies of Nonoffending Pedophilic and Hebephilic Individuals From Their Online Forum Posts. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2021; 33:793-815. [PMID: 33084517 PMCID: PMC8419289 DOI: 10.1177/1079063220965953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Individuals who identify as pedophilic or hebephilic, and who do not offend, are increasingly visible in online discourse and as a focus of research. Developing knowledge about this population will offer insights into their psychological needs and, potentially, into the mechanisms and strategies individuals use to live offense-free lives. This study examined coping strategies among members of an online forum supporting pedohebephilic individuals who do not wish to offend. Forum users' posts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Eleven themes emerged, which were classifiable into three superordinate themes around (a) the acceptance of pedophilia, (b) strategies to stay safe, and (c) dealing with sexual arousal. These themes offer insight into the varying strategies used by these individuals to cope with stress and/or to remain offense-free. Understanding whether these strategies are adaptive or maladaptive may help develop better support services for those who have not offended and may inform prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caoilte Ó Ciardha
- University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
- Caoilte Ó Ciardha, School of Psychology, Keynes College, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NP, UK.
| | - Ian A. Elliott
- Ministry of Justice, London, UK
- University College London, UK
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5
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Abulafia J, Epstein R. Impersonal and Predatory Relations With Child Victims of Sexual Assault: Pedophilic Interest and Early Childhood Abuse. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2020; 64:1741-1756. [PMID: 32539488 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x20928018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Fixated pedophilic sexual attraction is considered to be a major determinant of risk among sex offenders, but there is little empirical evidence regarding its treatment. It was hypothesized that two prominent factors which have emerged in the literature as being present among some sexual offenders, namely, impersonal, narcissistic, and predatory patterns of offending against victims, and experiencing childhood sexual abuse, may be related to specifically to the strength of pedophilic interest. Such a relationship would provide a deeper understanding of the corollaries of pedophilic interest and would suggest targets for treatment. These factors were explored in a sample of 532 sexual offenders who attended the National Centre for Risk Assessment in Israel, and were found to be significantly related to the level of pedophilic interest in the sample. The implications for treatment of high-risk offenders are discussed.
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Morrow EP. Cognitive, Affective, and General Empathy in Individuals Convicted of a Sexual Offense: A Meta-Analysis. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2020; 32:883-906. [PMID: 31272331 DOI: 10.1177/1079063219858062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Empathy has an important role in promoting proper societal functions. Those who violate societal functions, such as those convicted of having committed a criminal offense, are theorized to possess deficits in their empathic capacity. This assumption has been adopted by many criminological models, including for individuals convicted of a sexual offense (ICSO). However, contradictory research results have resulted in conflicting theories regarding the level of empathy within ICSO. This meta-analysis compiled available data to provide empirical clarity in a divided theoretical field. Results of the meta-analysis indicate that ICSO have lower levels of cognitive (Hedges's g = -.303, p = .007) and general empathy (Hedges's g = -.188, p = .020) than those in the general population but do not have significantly lower levels of affective empathy (Hedges's g = .023, p = .849). Several moderator analyses were conducted, including type of sexual offense, assessment instrument used, and age at conviction.
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Melvin CL, Langdon PE, Murphy GH. "They're the hardest group to treat, that changes the least". Adapted sex offender treatment programmes for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Clinician views and experiences. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 105:103721. [PMID: 32650219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Clinicians working with individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) who display sexual offending behaviours may face challenges during treatment, as a result of the cognitive and behavioural profile associated with ASD. This research explored the views and experiences of those running adapted sex offender treatment groups with men with ASD. METHOD Semi-structured interviews with group facilitators (n = 12) focused on service user engagement and response to the core components of the treatment programme (e.g. increasing victim empathy, addressing cognitive distortions, etc.), and gathered the experiences of those working with men with ASD who display sexual offending behaviours. RESULTS Grounded Theory was used to develop a model conceptualising the potential impact of ASD on treatment outcomes, and this emerged predominantly through clinician's views of risk of re-offending. Benefits of attending a group included: the presence of other group members, a forum to develop pro-social roles and relationships, and increased opportunity for monitoring. Challenges regarding empathy, specifically emotional empathy, and shifts in cognitive distortions were felt particularly pertinent to those with ASD, as well as questions over internalisation of therapy. CONCLUSION Despite identification of a number of challenges, adapted sex offender treatment programmes were considered beneficial for men with ASD, especially in light of a dearth of evidenced-based alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare L Melvin
- The University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK; The Tizard Centre, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK; Hertfordshire, Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, The Broadland Clinic, Norfolk, UK.
| | - Peter E Langdon
- Centre for Educational Development, Appraisal and Research (CEDAR), University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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8
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedwig Eisenbarth
- School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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9
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Hanson RK. Altruistic (costly) punishment as motivation for vindictive rape. SEXUAL OFFENDING 2020. [DOI: 10.5964/sotrap.3067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents a model of vindictive rape based on common mechanisms for maintaining cooperation among humans, namely altruistic (or costly) punishment, sex role expectations, and retributive (“eye for an eye”) justice. Vindictive rapes are characterized by high level of victim harm without explicit sadistic sexual interests. They are also distinguished from angry, reactive sexual aggression in response to personal insult or threats. In this model, vindictive rape is considered a form of retributive justice in which the perpetrator punishes the female victim for perceived transgressions against sexual norms. None of the specific psychological mechanisms are intrinsically problematic. Nevertheless, individuals who have committed vindictive rapes would still be expected to have risk-relevant schema worthy of interventions. For such individuals, the primary treatment targets would be loosening rigid sexual norm expectations for women, increasing confidence in conventional methods of maintaining social order, and decreasing willingness to hurt others at the cost of hurting oneself. A 15-item Vindictive Rape Attitude Questionnaire is presented in order to facilitate further research on the topic.
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Ly T, Fedoroff JP, Briken P. A narrative review of research on clinical responses to the problem of sexual offenses in the last decade. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2020; 38:117-134. [PMID: 32026512 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Research on the treatment and programs for people who have committed sexual offenses has greatly increased in the past decade. The aim of this review is to discuss research that has been published over that period (2010-2019) that is relevant for treatment providers. The articles included in this review were found through PsycINFO and PubMed (Medline) using the keywords "treatment or therapy" and "sex offen*". The inclusion criteria were publications that discuss treatment of persons who have committed sexual offenses (written in the English language only). Any articles that examined only special populations were excluded, such as those that examined persons who committed sexual offenses who were female, had intellectual disabilities, deafness, juveniles, etc., because these groups will likely have needs and responsivity factors that differ from the "average" natal-born male sex offender. Results showed that several meta-analyses indicate that treatment is effective in reducing sexual recidivism. The most frequently used treatment for sex offenders is cognitive behavioral therapy, which is often provided in conjunction with pharmacological treatment to reduce sexual impulsivity and/or sex drive. This review is limited to the specific key search terms. The findings of this review support the use of treatment and a community reintegration approach when treating persons who have committed sexual crimes to prevent sexual recidivism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Ly
- Forensic Research Unit at the Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Group, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Paul Fedoroff
- Sexual Behaviours Clinic at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Group, Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical-Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Moore J, Mennicke A. Empathy Deficits and Perceived Permissive Environments: Sexual Harassment Perpetration on College Campuses. THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL AGGRESSION 2019; 26:372-384. [PMID: 33281491 PMCID: PMC7716772 DOI: 10.1080/13552600.2019.1651913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Sexual harassment is a common experience among college students, and its perpetration may be associated with deficits in perspective taking -- a form of empathy -- and institutional factors such as climates. This investigation compared reported outcomes after sexual harassment and perceptions of institutional support between perpetrators and victims of sexual harassment. A total of 579 students responding to a campus climate survey indicated that they were victims or perpetrators of sexual harassment in the past seven months. Perpetrators of sexual harassment perceived that their victims experienced far fewer negative outcomes than victims reported actually experiencing. Additionally, victims of sexual harassment had significantly worse perceptions of institutional support than did perpetrators of sexual harassment. This information can be used to inform primary and secondary prevention methods utilized by universities.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Moore
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Annelise Mennicke
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
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12
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Melvin CL, Langdon PE, Murphy GH. "I feel that if I didn't come to it anymore, maybe I would go back to my old ways and I don't want that to happen": Adapted sex offender treatment programmes: Views of service users with autism spectrum disorders. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2019; 33:739-756. [PMID: 31304657 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cognitive and behavioural profile associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) includes difficulties with social interaction, communication and empathy. Each of these may present barriers to effective participation in sexual offending treatment, leading to poorer outcomes. METHOD Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 men with autism and an intellectual disability (including the borderline range) who had completed an adapted sex offender treatment programme. Grounded Theory was used to explore the men's experiences of treatment and perceptions of risk. RESULTS The men's perceptions of sexual risk were inextricably linked to constructs of identity and shaped their opinions of treatment effectiveness. Risk of reoffending was conveyed through narratives of changes in self and circumstances and included notions of blame and culpability. CONCLUSIONS The findings illustrated some clear benefits for men with ASD associated with attending adapted sex offender treatment programmes, including delivery of treatment within groups and opportunities for social development. The study supports the view that difficulties with empathy and cognitive flexibility complicates treatment for sexual offending.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare L Melvin
- The Tizard Centre, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, The Broadland Clinic, Norfolk, UK
| | - Peter E Langdon
- The Tizard Centre, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, The Broadland Clinic, Norfolk, UK
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Hollomotz A, Greenhalgh J. A realist analysis of treatment programmes for sex offenders with intellectual disabilities. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2019; 33:729-738. [PMID: 31087494 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The resources used in treatment for sex offenders with intellectual disabilities have had much research attention, but less has been written about how participants are expected to respond (programme mechanisms). METHODS A realist evaluation of seven programmes from the UK, Canada, USA, Switzerland and Germany was conducted. In semi-structured interviews, programme designers elucidated how they are intended to work. The data analysis was driven by the realist concern to expose programme mechanisms and intended outcomes. RESULTS Two main outcomes are increasing risk management capacities and cultivating prosocial identities. These are achieved through developing insights into a person's risks, work on (sexual) self-regulation skills, sexual boundaries and personal values and by developing meaningful social roles and positive relationships. CONCLUSIONS Over time, there have been changes to some of the treatment resources used. However, there were little differences in terms of the intended programme mechanisms and outcomes, which remained surprisingly consistent.
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Wagner SL, Pasca R, Regehr C. Firefighters and Empathy: Does It Hurt to Care Too Much? JOURNAL OF LOSS & TRAUMA 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2018.1525035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L. Wagner
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Romana Pasca
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
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15
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Rimer JR. "In the street they're real, in a picture they're not": Constructions of children and childhood among users of online child sexual exploitation material. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2019; 90:160-173. [PMID: 30797119 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2018.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research about online child sexual exploitation material (CSEM) users focuses on psychological assessments, demographics, motivations, and offending rates. Little is known about their understandings of children in CSEM. OBJECTIVE From an anthropological perspective, examine CSEM users' constructions of children and childhood online and offline, and explore how these factor into their crimes. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING CSEM users in UK group programs. METHODS In-depth ethnography, including 17 months of participant observation in group programs with 81 CSEM users, 31 semi-structured interviews with group participants, and inductive analysis of themes illuminated by childhood theory from anthropology. RESULTS When referring to children offline, many participants claimed to align with Euro-American norms and constructions surrounding children's learning, protection, irrationality, inexperience, asexuality, and innocence. However online, many constructed children differently: as less or not "real," and as sexualized. This rendered children in CSEM fundamentally different, which facilitated offending, assisted in overcoming barriers, and allowed participants to hold conventional beliefs about children and childhood while engaging in incongruent online activity. Vital in this process was Internet use and associated distancing, detachment, anonymity, and cultural othering. The program used victim empathy to restore dominant norms to online children, for which participants invoked feelings, recognized their role in abuse, extrapolated consequences for victims, and reinforced norms. CONCLUSIONS Constructions of children and childhood were central in offending. The complexities of negotiating "real" versus "not real" in both offending and victim empathy are discussed, as are conceptual distinctions between "constructions" and "cognitive distortions," and implications for treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah R Rimer
- Oxford University, School of Anthropology & Museum Ethnography, 51/53 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 6PE, United Kingdom.
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16
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Boduszek D, Debowska A, Jones AD, Ma M, Smith D, Willmott D, Trotman Jemmott E, Da Breo H, Kirkman G. Prosocial video game as an intimate partner violence prevention tool among youth: A randomised controlled trial. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2018.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Kennedy JLD, Tuliao AP, Flower KN, Tibbs JJ, McChargue DE. Long-Term Effectiveness of a Brief Restorative Justice Intervention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2019; 63:3-17. [PMID: 29877107 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x18779202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This research investigated the effectiveness of a brief Restorative Justice Intervention. Probationers who attended a Restorative Justice Intervention ( n = 383) were compared with probationers receiving treatment as usual ( n = 130) over a 2- to 6-year follow-up period. The proportion of individuals who recidivated in the control condition ( n = 89, 68.46%) were higher compared with those who recidivated in the intervention condition ( n = 127, 33.16%; z = 7.04, p < .001). In addition, among those who recidivated, those in the intervention condition did so less frequently. Qualitative analyses from a postintervention course evaluation given only to the intervention condition showed that 50% of probationers acknowledged an empathic understanding associated with participation. This brief intervention has a positive multilevel impact on restorative justice. Implications of these effects are discussed.
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Effects of intermittent theta burst stimulation applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex on empathy and impulsivity in healthy adult males. Brain Cogn 2018; 128:37-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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19
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Mitchell RC, Galupo MP. The Role of Forensic Factors and Potential Harm to the Child in the Decision Not to Act Among Men Sexually Attracted to Children. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2018; 33:2159-2179. [PMID: 26763286 DOI: 10.1177/0886260515624211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
To date, sexual abuse prevention efforts have largely focused on tertiary prevention strategies designed to prevent recidivism among forensic samples of men with a history of sex offending behavior. The present study used mixed methodology to investigate the role of several forensic and related factors on the decision not to commit a sex offense among two groups of community men who self-reported a sexual attraction to children: those who reported a history of acting on their attractions (Acted, n = 29) and those who reported never acting on their attractions (Not Acted, n = 71). Participants from both groups described in their own words the factors that contributed to their decision not to act on their attractions. They also responded to quantitative and qualitative questions regarding the influence and role of the following factors on their decision not to act: (a) the possibility of jail or punishment, (b) mental health treatment, and (c) not wanting to hurt the child. Results were compared across groups, and across prompted and unprompted responses. Analyses highlighted harm to the child as a particularly salient factor in the decision not to act among men in the community at risk for sexually offending. The present study suggests that investigating potential protective factors may be an important direction for future research among samples of community men at risk for both first-time and repeat offenses against children.
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Gillespie SM, Bailey A, Squire T, Carey ML, Eldridge HJ, Beech AR. An Evaluation of a Community-Based Psycho-Educational Program for Users of Child Sexual Exploitation Material. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2018; 30:169-191. [PMID: 27000266 DOI: 10.1177/1079063216639591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Online sexual offenders represent an increasingly large proportion of all sexual offenders. Many of these offenders receive noncustodial sentences, and there is a growing need for community-based interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate a psycho-educational program for community dwelling users of child sexual exploitation material (CSEM). A total of 92 adult male participants completed self-report measures at pre and post. A subset of participants also completed measures after a follow-up period. Results suggested benefits across depression, anxiety, and stress; social competency, including locus of control and self-esteem; and distorted attitudes. Furthermore, these effects remained 8 to 12 weeks following program completion. Our results suggest that CSEM users are amenable to treatment in the community and that there are beneficial outcomes in affective and interpersonal functioning following psycho-education. These factors represent treatment targets for sexual offenders and are recognized risk factors for contact sexual offense recidivism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Gillespie
- 1 University of Birmingham, UK
- 2 The Lucy Faithfull Foundation, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Tom Squire
- 2 The Lucy Faithfull Foundation, Birmingham, UK
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21
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Jones S, Cisler J, Morais H, Bai S. Exploring Neural Correlates of Empathy in Juveniles Who Have Sexually Offended. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2018; 30:82-103. [PMID: 26880789 DOI: 10.1177/1079063216630980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
To effectively address the needs of youth who perpetrate sexual violence and reduce rates of recidivism, a better understanding of the mechanisms of juvenile sexual offending is needed. Current literature identifies various factors that are believed to put youth at risk for sexual offending, two of which are empathy deficits and childhood sexual abuse (CSA). The extent to which empathy deficits contribute to juvenile sexual offending, however, is often debated, though studies have not yet explored a neurobehavioral model of this mechanism. This pilot study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to explore the neural correlates of empathy in juveniles who sexually offend (JSOs), and the possible role of CSA. A total of 38 males (ages 12-20) were enrolled, including 11 healthy control subjects and 27 JSOs, of which, 11 had a history of CSA. Participants underwent clinical assessment and completed an empathy task during fMRI. Using both whole-brain and region-of-interest analysis, results of the fMRI data showed no statistical differences in engagement of brain regions associated with empathy between controls and all JSOs. There were also no significant differences between JSOs with and without a history of CSA. These null findings pose implications for guiding future research studies with larger samples and more statistical power, and may support the need to further explore empathy-related explanatory models and interventions for JSOs. Neuroimaging may demonstrate to be a useful tool to identify individualized risk factors and aid in tailoring interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Jones
- 1 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Josh Cisler
- 1 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Hugo Morais
- 1 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Shasha Bai
- 1 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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Browne KD, Hines M, Tully RJ. The differences between sex offenders who victimise older women and sex offenders who offend against children. Aging Ment Health 2018; 22:11-18. [PMID: 27367563 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2016.1202892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Within the literature on sex offending, much attention is paid to the distinction between those sex offenders who offend against adults and those who offend against children. In contrast, there is a paucity of research into sex offenders who offend specifically against elderly or older victims. METHOD A detailed interview and psychometric tests were conducted with a sample of 28 sex offenders who had been convicted of a sexually motivated offence against an older female. These data were compared to a sample of 23 child sex offenders. RESULTS Results indicate that amongst other significant differences between these sub-groups, men who offend against older women are generally younger, are more violent, and are more likely to use a weapon and cause injury and death compared to child sex offenders. The men who offended against children were more likely to think about and plan their offending, spend more time with the victim pre and post offence, admit sexual arousal during the offence, and admit to a sexual motivation for the offence. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that men who sexually offend against older women and men who sexually offend against children are distinct groups. Treatment and risk management strategies should take this into account. Further exploration of this sub-group of offenders is recommended to help inform treatment and risk management strategies for sex offenders who offend against older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- K D Browne
- a Centre for Forensic and Family Psychology , The University of Nottingham , Nottingham , UK
| | - Morag Hines
- b The University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | - Ruth J Tully
- a Centre for Forensic and Family Psychology , The University of Nottingham , Nottingham , UK.,c Tully Forensic Psychology Ltd. , Nottingham , UK
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Van Lissa CJ, Hawk ST, Meeus WHJ. The effects of affective and cognitive empathy on adolescents' behavior and outcomes in conflicts with mothers. J Exp Child Psychol 2017; 158:32-45. [PMID: 28189885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2017.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated whether manipulations of affective and cognitive empathy have differential effects on observed behavior and self-reported outcomes in adolescent-mother conflict discussions. We further examined how these situational empathy inductions interact with preexisting empathic dispositions. To promote ecological validity, we conducted home visits to study conflict discussions about real disagreements in adolescent-mother relationships. We explored the roles of sex, age, and maternal support and power as covariates and moderators. Results indicated that the affective empathy manipulation had no significant effects on behavior, although a trend in the hypothesized direction suggested that affective empathy might promote active problem solving. The cognitive empathy manipulation led to lower conflict escalation and promoted other-oriented listening for adolescents low in dispositional cognitive empathy. State-trait interactions indicated that the empathy manipulations had significant effects on self-reported outcomes for adolescents lower in dispositional empathic concern. For these adolescents, both manipulations promoted outcome satisfaction, but only the cognitive manipulation promoted perceived fairness. This suggests that cognitive empathy, in particular, allows adolescents to distance themselves from the emotional heat of a conflict and listen to mothers' point of view, leading to outcomes perceived as both satisfying and fair. These findings are relevant for interventions and clinicians because they demonstrate unique effects of promoting affective versus cognitive empathy. Because even these minimal manipulations promoted significant effects on observed behavior and self-reported outcomes, particularly for low-empathy adolescents, stronger structural interventions are likely to have marked benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caspar J Van Lissa
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, 3062 PA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Skyler T Hawk
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Wim H J Meeus
- Adolescent Development, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; Developmental Psychology, Tilburg University, 5037 AB Tilburg, The Netherlands
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Martínez-Catena A, Redondo S. Etiología, prevención y tratamiento de la delincuencia sexual. ANUARIO DE PSICOLOGÍA JURÍDICA 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apj.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Beier KM, Grundmann D, Kuhle LF, Scherner G, Konrad A, Amelung T. The German Dunkelfeld Project: A Pilot Study to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse and the Use of Child Abusive Images. J Sex Med 2015; 12:529-42. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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