A Comparison between Incestuous and Non-Incestuous Offenders of Female Minors Under the Age of 14

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess for predicting factors in incestuous child molesters compared to non-incestuous child molesters. The study focused on patterns in personalities and substance abuse. The archival data for this study was obtained from Orange Psychological Services. The sample size was comprised of 24 participants, 17 with incestuous offenses and 7 with non-incestuous offenses. To assess their personality traits as well as their potential substance abuse their scores on the MMPI-2 were analyzed. A chi-square was conducted on the following scales AAS, APS, and MAC-R for both non-incestuous and incestuous child molesters. A Mann Whitney U-Test was performed on both groups to examine if there was any difference in their Psychopathic Deviate scale of the MMPI. Lastly an independent samples t-test was conducted on the MMPI-2 K Scale for both subgroups. Results revealed no significant difference in either of the MMPI-2 scales.

The data in both subgroups of child molesters was analyzed to understand how psychological and psychosexual factors play a role in each subgroup in order to help add to the existing body of research and provide awareness to the general public. As California moves to remove sex offenders from the sex offender registry it has become imperative to understand the various subgroups of sex offenders. The more that is learned from each subgroup the simpler it will be to target their specific needs in treatment.