A content analysis of pedophile manuals. (May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blalock, Jessica R.; Bourke, Michael L.
• Is Part Of: Aggression and violent behavior. Volume 64(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-05
• Subjects: Pedophilia -- Manual -- Victim selection -- Distortions -- Sex offender -- Grooming -- Child exploitation; Aggressiveness -- Periodicals; Violence -- Periodicals; Violent offenders -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 302.54
• DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2020.101482
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1789

Abstract

Abstract: Of great concern is the existence of instructional manuals circulating online that provide pedophiles with guidance on how to sexually abuse children. To better understand the role this material may play in the exploitation of children, the United States Marshals Services Behavioral Analysis Unit conducted a qualitative analysis on the content of all known pedophile manuals. From the cumulative content of these manuals we derived a model of victim selection and identified specific strategies used by this population to harm children. The manuals reveal that although external situational factors are given consideration during victim selection, the internal vulnerabilities of the victim are emphasized for active exploitation. The graphic content found within the documents and the ability to obtain them anonymously exacerbate the danger these manuals pose by reinforcing cognitive distortions, fostering networking opportunities, and normalizing the sexual abuse of children. The "education" provided in the manuals may bolster pedophilic identification as well as increase criminal efficacy. In the current paper we present important insights we obtained about the mentality and methodologies of pedophiles and other individuals interested in sexually exploiting children.