Social Learning Theory, Mental Health Issues, and Their Effects on the Intergenerational Transmission of Sexually Deviant Behavior

• In Event: Theoretical Explanations of Sexual Offending

Abstract

Sexual offending remains a common problem facing American society today and although some research has focused on its causes and effects, much remains unknown. One promising direction focuses on the traumatizing nature of sexual victimization and its role for later offending for individuals --- reinvigorating the cycle of sexual abuse hypothesis. This preliminary analysis investigates the inter-relationships among variables derived from victim to victimizer theory and sexual offending, by combining the theoretical framework laid out by Social Learning Theory combined with the negative psychological impacts of being a victim of sexual assault. This study uses secondary data, Assessing the Practical Monetary Efficacy of New Jersey’s Megan’s Law, to analyze a random sample of 550 sexual offenders in New Jersey from 1990 to 2000. Using official and self reports, this study uses Akers’ Social Learning Theory to examine the offenders’ victimization history, mental health history, and rates of recidivism post-incarceration to determine whether or not their history of victimization and mental health led to a greater likelihood of recidivating. Additional research findings, policy implications, and limitations will be discussed.

Authors

• Mackenzie J. Kushner, Northeastern University

• Lonn Lanza-Kaduce, University of Florida

• Jennifer L. Klein, University of Texas at Tyler