NCJ Number
208714
Journal
Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health Volume: 14 Issue: 4 Dated: 2004 Pages: 238-250
Date Published
2004
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study compared the offending careers of juveniles who sexually offend against children with those of juveniles who sexually offend against peers or older victims.
Abstract
Previous research on adult sex offenders has shown that those who sexually offend against children have likely started their offending career at an earlier age, have victimized a larger number of persons, and continue their offending careers over longer time periods than adult sex offenders who victimize other adults. The current study sought to determine the extent to which this type of offending pattern applies to juvenile sex offenders. Participants were 116 male juvenile offenders prosecuted for a sexual offense other than exhibitionism. Data were drawn from psychological screenings conducted for the juvenile courts in the Netherlands that included a number of standard assessment questionnaires, an intelligence test, and interviews with the juvenile and their parents. Results of statistical analyses indicated that juvenile child molesters scored higher on neuroticism, experienced more social problems, reported a more negative self-image, and had been bullied more often at school compared with juvenile sex offenders who victimized peers and older persons. At the time of referral for screening, juvenile child molesters had committed more sexual offenses at a younger age than their counterparts, and most had offended against males with no use of force. The findings suggest a greater need for psychological intervention with juveniles who sexually offend against children. Tables, references