The assessment and treatment of child molesters: A review.

Abstract

Men who perform sexual acts with children do not form a homogeneous group. Compared to heterosexual child molesters, homosexual offenders choose older (pubescent) victims, are more likely to recidivate, and are less numerous. Incestuous child molesters are almost always heterosexual and least likely to recidivate. Most child molesters are not physically dangerous but there is little consensus about how to identify persons who will use force in their offence. Psychophysiological measures, in particular penile responses to visual stimuli, have been useful in assessment. Several therapeutic interventions appear useful but there is a dearth of studies which compare different treatments.