Early Maladaptive Schemas in Sex Offenders and Non-Sexual Violent Offenders: A Systematic Review

Sex offenders and non-sexual violent offenders display distinct cognitive distortions that shape their offenses. Some evidence suggests that early maladaptive schemas which reflect individuals’ fundamental cognitions and beliefs, contribute to these cognitive distortions. However, these have not been systematically appraised. We conducted a systematic review to synthesize the evidence regarding the schema profiles of sex offenders and non-sexual violent offenders, and to explore differences in schemas between these offender types. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Within the sex offender category, rapists and child sex offenders endorsed similar schemas. For non-sexual violent offenders, schemas related to self-control issues and self-entitlement were most prominent. Sex offenders demonstrated more schemas that endorsed negative perceptions of themselves and others than violent offenders. Findings also suggest that atypical sexual interests and mental disorders may be important. This evidence highlights the need for a more fine-tuned understanding of the cognitive profiles of sexual and non-sexual violent offenders and for developing schema-based offender management and rehabilitation services.