NCJ Number
195191
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 46 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2002 Pages: 144-169
Date Published
2002
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This study presents an investigation of the empirical validity of offender psychological profiling in serial rapist investigations.
Abstract
The authors discuss the increasing popularity of criminal psychological profiling as a criminal investigative tool. An overview of the three existing main rapist profiles: the power rapist, the sadistic rapist, and the excessive force/degrading acts rapist is provided. Data for the study was developed through an analysis of 62 serial sexual assault incidents which occurred throughout Australia. Statistical analysis via multidimensional scaling produced a five cluster model of serial rapist behavior, which included one cluster of common behaviors and four clusters of outlying patterns which corresponded to distinctive offending styles and patterns. In addition, victim characteristics and victim-offender interactions were discussed. The initial findings of the authors seem to support the progression of serial rapists into sexual murder behavior. The authors recommend further research regarding this potential relationship. 3 tables, 4 figures, 3 notes, 46 references