PERCEPTION OF CHILD ABUSE OFFENDERS

Abstract

This study explored variables (respondent gender, offender history of child abuse, and type of offense) that affect how child abuse offenders are perceived. Respondents (308 undergraduates) read a scenario depicting a child abuse offense, then completed a questionnaire to assess perceived effect on the child, offender etiology, characteristics of the offender, and sentencing options. Results were analyzed using 2x3x2 ANOVAs. Results indicate that women perceived offenders to have a higher recidivism rate than men. Regarding offender history of child abuse, respondents felt more sympathy towards offenders who experienced childhood abuse, and were more likely to attribute the offense to the offender’s negative childhood experiences. Child sexual abuse offenders were generally viewed more negatively than child physical abuse offenders. For example, child sexual abuse offenders were perceived as more responsible for the offense and more dangerous than child physical abuse offenders.