1. Objectifs

Intentions :
«The authors tested specific (factors specific to sexual abuse) and general explanations (general factors linked to general delinquency) for male adolescent sexual offending.» (p. 112)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
«A […] sample of 136 adolescent males [was] recruited from six specialized treatment centers and six youth centers, taking part in a larger study [conducted in Quebec] investigating family dynamics and relationships among AESA and their parents. All adolescents who had engaged in at least one sexual abuse involving physical contact between the age of 12 and 17 were invited to participate.» (p. 115)

Instruments :
Questionnaires

Type de traitement des données :
Analyse statistique

3. Résumé

Concerning family, the findings show that «[i]t is possible that [these adolescents] grew up in a strict family environment (strict rules and supervision), in which sexuality was taboo. Their sexual “sterilization” could have contributed to the creation of a sense of inadequacy or sexual lateness, which in turn contributed to the favoring of abusive or dominant behaviors instead of a consensual approach. The opposite is also possible, that is, they grew up in a family with a lack of boundaries regarding sexual intimacy (e.g., exposition to parents’ sexual behaviors) that generated a discomfort and avoidance surrounding sex. Growing up in such environments (strict or lack of boundaries) could have impaired the proper development of a healthy expression of sexuality. It could also have generated a “misperception of sexuality” and prevented these adolescents from learning more appropriate social skills necessary to successfully court a potential and appropriate sexual partner or lover. [Moreover] sex offenders’ parents often adopt an attitude of resignation regarding the provision of sexual education to their children and that may lead them to a poor understanding of sexual social standards. This could particularly be the case in a family where sexuality is taboo.» (p. 120)