Entering the world of sex offenders: an exploration of offending behaviour patterns of those with both internet and contact sex offences against children. Issue 2 (6th May 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Aslan, Deniz; Edelmann, Robert; Bray, Diane; Worrell, Marcia
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic practice. Volume 16:Issue 2(2014)
• Page Start: 110
• Page End: 126
• Publication Date: 2014-05-06
• Subjects: Child sex offenders -- Offence pathways -- The role of internet; Forensic psychiatry -- Periodicals; Forensic psychology -- Periodicals; 614.15
• DOI: 10.1108/JFP-02-2013-0015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-8794

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The relationship between accessing indecent images online and the perpetration of contact child sex offences remains unclear. The purpose of this paper is to provide a better understanding of the offence process of offenders who have both such convictions. Design/methodology/approach: – A total of eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with older adult males who had downloaded indecent images and also had a history of contact sex offences against children. Data analysis involved thematic coding based on guidelines suggested by Braun and Clarke (2006). Findings: – Themes which emerged suggest some similarities (offence process behaviours), but also some differences (developmental factors) between the eight offenders. Data relevant to developmental factors formed two primary themes: childhood attachment difficulties and experiences of childhood abuse, both of which appeared to influence the offence process. Escalating factors generated a further three themes: adult relationships, personality problems and substance use. Five main categories also emerged with regard to offence behaviours: sexually deviant interests, lack of self-control, opportunity, the role of the internet (availability, easy access and anonymity), and cognitive distortions (justifications: interest in challenge and sexual frustration; denial: accidental access and denial of a victim, normalisation; blame: blame on the victim, new technologies and authorities and blame on other factors; and minimisation). Practical implications: – A better understanding of the offence process would inform clinical practice with such offenders and aid in the process of prevention. Originality/value: – This is the first research to date which explores the rationale provided for their behaviour by those convicted of both internet and contact child sex offences.