Important findings of this research include: (1) There is no single profile that accurately describes or accounts for all child molesters; (2) Sexual focus in child molesters has two independent dimensions: intensity of pedophilic interest and exclusivity of the sexual preference for children; (3) Most victims of childhood sexual abuse do not go on to become child molesters; (4) A history of impulsive, antisocial behavior is a well-documented risk factor for certain predatory, extrafamilial child molesters; (5) Early childhood experiences, such as a high turnover in primary caregivers, may interfere with development of viable, age-appropriate adult relationships, making more likely the selection of children as sexual targets; (6) Physiological arousal to children often accompanies a sexual interest in them; (7) An empirical classification typology for child molesters is being developed by NIJ-supported researchers; (8) Recidivism rates across studies are confounded by many factors; (9) A 25-year follow-up study of 111 extrafamilial child molesters provided extensive data from criminal justice records and rationally derived composites of variables; (10) Although optimal treatment interventions have yet to be identified, cognitive behavior therapy, antidepressant and antiandrogen medication has reduced recidivism among child molesters; and (11) Intensive community-based supervision and management of child molesters is essential to reduce sexual victimization rates. Figures, tables, notes
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