The Psychology of Child Sexual Abusers: What Research Actually Tells Us

Child sexual abuse is often imagined as being committed by a recognisable type of person: someone obviously disturbed, socially isolated, aggressive or visibly predatory. Research tells us something considerably more complicated. There is no single psychological profile, personality disorder or psychiatric diagnosis that identifies a child sexual abuser. People who sexually abuse children are a heterogeneous… Read More The Psychology of Child Sexual Abusers: What Research Actually Tells Us

Linda C J Turner1 Comment

Research-based typologies of people who sexually abuse children

The central finding is that child sexual offenders are a heterogeneous population. There is no single psychological or personality profile that identifies a child sexual abuser. A major review of the literature specifically concludes that existing typologies have useful descriptive value but also significant methodological limitations.  1. Groth’s typology — early motivational model Groth’s work was… Read More Research-based typologies of people who sexually abuse children

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Major research-based typologies

1. Fixated / preferential offenders These individuals have a persistent sexual interest in children or adolescents. Their behaviour may involve grooming, developing relationships with children, seeking situations that provide access, or repeatedly offending. The classic Groth, Longo & McFadin typology distinguished offenders partly by their underlying motivation and relationship to children. Later research has criticised simple typologies… Read More Major research-based typologies

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What is seen in some offenders

Trait/disorder What is seen in some offenders Antisocial traits / ASPD More common among some sexual offenders, particularly those with broader criminal and aggressive behaviour Narcissistic traits Entitlement, need for admiration, lack of empathy and exploitation can occur, but narcissism alone does not predict child sexual abuse Psychopathic traits Particularly relevant to offenders who are manipulative, callous,… Read More What is seen in some offenders

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Take the disclosure seriously enough to act

If an abuser discloses something genuinely disturbing about another family member—especially something suggesting a child or grandchild may be at risk—the safest approach is not to dismiss it, but also not to investigate it yourself. A sensible framework is: Most importantly, don’t make the child responsible for proving anything. The adults around them should create safety and… Read More Take the disclosure seriously enough to act

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I’d Rather Be Alone Than Compromise

A large Viking-style wooden hall with intricate carvings and flags, set on a rocky mountain peak above dense clouds, with people standing on the stone bridge and terrace

There comes a point in life when you finally stop negotiating with nonsense. I’ve reached mine. I am no longer putting up with bad behaviour, empty promises, abuse of any kind, meanness, misery or miserly behaviour. And before anyone gets worried, no — I haven’t suddenly become difficult. I’ve simply become awake. I Don’t Want a Project… Read More I’d Rather Be Alone Than Compromise

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