Sex Offending

There are two influential schools of thought on sexual offending: sociological and psychological.

The sociological theory of sexual abuse, grounded in feminist theory, argues that sexual offending, and the abuse of women in particular, is inevitable in a society where men are more powerful economically, politically and socially. Pointing to evidence that sex offenders are often motivated by anger and domination, rather than sexual gratification, this perspective argues that the rape and sexual assault of women is motivated by men's desire to humiliate and threaten women who challenge the established order in society. Although this is a compelling argument, it fails to adequately explain why men abuse children or other men, nor does it explain the comparatively small number of female sex offenders. Psychological theories, particularly cognitive-behavioural explanations, suggest that sexually abusive behaviour is, or can be, learned. In this perspective, sex offenders come to 'justify' their behaviour by advocating a belief system which is not only shared by other sex offenders, but is reinforced by wider societal attitudes towards women and children. Significantly, this perspective suggests that abusive behaviour can be changed. Although both schools have their supporters, most approaches to treating and managing sex offenders in the UK are underpinned by a combination of the two.

For more information on sexual offences, please visit this page of the website.

The Scottish Government has implemented a range of measures to address and mange the risk of serious sexual and violent offenders. For more information on these initiatives see here.

The Centre subscribes to the Journal of Sexual Aggression, copies of which may be consulted by any member of the Centre. A free sample issue is also available here.