Young female sex offenders: assessment and treatment issues.
Research on the characteristics and treatment of juvenile female sex offenders is limited. This article reviews the literature on female offenders and presents the results of a nationwide survey by mail of 250 mental health providers in private settings and residential treatment centers (RTCs), on approaches to diagnosing prior sexual abuse history and/or perpetration among juvenile females. Nineteen of the most experienced practitioners were also interviewed by telephone to provide further insight to the issues highlighted by the surveys. Key findings include the lack of research, tools, and literature on young female sex offenders and perceived differences between male and female offenders including history, treatment, and characteristics. Further study and awareness of this population is encouraged to address clinical needs.
Vick
Jennifer
J
Center for Social Work Research, University of Texas, Austin, USA.
McRoy
Ruth
R
Matthews
Bobbie M
BM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003156:Community Mental Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D007604:Juvenile Delinquency / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012114:Residential Treatment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012737:Sex Factors; D012742:Sex Offenses / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology