Sociological and psychological factors in the backgrounds of male and female perpetrators of child abuse

Abstract

A multifactor analysis of case histories of 82 perpetrators of child abuse led to profiles quite consistent with other literature in the mental health field. Of general interest was the finding that most incidents of abuse occurred in December and January (45%). Analysis of the particular facets of the histories of the perpetrators which distinguished them from comperable non-perpetrators was performed. Distinct patterns emerged for the male (n=46) as opposed to the female (n=46) perpetrators. Specifically the findings were: 1. a. That while female perpetrators tended to be young, most male perpetrators were between the ages of 31 and 40 (59%); 2. b. That the traditional pattern of undereducation held for the females, but not for the males (64% had completed high school); 3. c. That while the histories of perpetrators of both sexes showed patterns of minimal or ineffective control over their environment, the locus of specific factors varied as a function of sex with factors for males being primarily achievement and employment related and factors for females being primarily social and psychological in nature; 4. d. That while history of abuse as a child was a significant differentiating factor for females, it was not for males; 5. e. That while male perpetrators abused male and female children with equal frequency, female perpetrators abused male children significantly more often. The implications and generality of these patterns are discussed and related to findings in other areas. The Child Abuse & Neglect Coordinating Organization of St. Joseph County, Indiana has developed an individualized treatment program utilizinga wide range of community services (Mental Health Center, Caseworker Services, Homemaker Services, Foster Care, Alcohol and Drug Programs, Family and Children's Center) together with their own Parent's Anonymous group, Parent Surrogate program, Emergency Placement Center, and Welcome Baby program. The result is that 73% of the abused children have remained with their parents with no further abuse incidents.