Are Latinos Who Commit Sexual Offenses Different? A Closer Examination of Characteristics and Offense Patterns

Silvia Fraga Dominguez, Elizabeth Jeglic, Cynthia Calkins, Alejandro Leguízamo

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Abstract

Research examining ethnic and cultural differences among individuals who commit sex offenses remains limited. Specifically, literature focusing on sex offenses committed by Latinos is scarce. Using archival data from a large sample of individuals who committed sex offenses, this study explored differences between Latino, White, and African American individuals related to their characteristics, the offenses, and the victims. Latinos in the sample were more likely to have a lower educational level, and to be living with the victim, than either their White or African American counterparts. To further understand the influence of cultural background, the study also examined differences within the Latino group based on their country of origin. Within the Latino sample, differences emerged in their educational level, criminal background, and psychiatric history. These findings are discussed as they pertain to future research and current practices related to the management and treatment of Latinos who commit sexual offenses.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)846–868
Number of pages23
JournalSexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment
Volume30
Issue number7
Early online date2 Jun 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Oct 2018

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