Understanding the Characteristics and Motivations of Female Sexual Offenders: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Sexual offenses are considered among the most egregious crimes in modern society. While some information is available in the public sphere, most popular conceptualizations of female sexual offenders are more heavily influenced by mythology and popular culture than science. Nonetheless, research helps further identify the characteristics of those who commit these crimes and their relation to those they victimize. This systematic review has been conducted to collect data on female sexual offenders. The initial literature search yielded 5,344 potential articles, 16 of which met the review’s eligibility criteria. The data organized from these articles provide this phenomenon's most recent state of science and provide a detailed picture of these women's identities, along with possible developmental and behavioral trajectories. Findings suggest extensive trauma histories and problematic boundary development in personal and familial relationships are critical factors for consideration--data that doesn't necessarily align with portrayals of these women in popular culture.