The influence of sex offender registration and notification laws on group and individual identity

• In Event: Convict Criminology Session 4: Advances in Sex Offender Policy Research: Collateral Impacts and Experiences

Abstract

Using qualitative interviews with registered sex offenders who have not reoffended, this paper explores the ways in which sex offender laws create, influence, and shape a group level identity among offenders, and ultimately affect individuals' self-identities. The results from this study can be used to highlight the need to recognize these identities when planing treatment modalities and determine the future of sex offender laws.

Authors

• Tusty ten Bensel, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

• Lisa Sample, University of Nebraska at Omaha