Psychological characteristics of Maltese convicted sex offenders

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the psychological characteristics of Maltese convicted sex offenders. This study examines three chronological stages of the psychological cycle of abuse that the sex offender engages in and passes through. Aside the diverse theories used to explain these stages; this research project also focuses on the main difference between two types of sex offenders, which are the rapists and paedophiles. Qualitative dimensions through semi-structured interviews wereadministered out to professionals who work or had previously worked with Maltese sex offenders or similar cases. Professionals were asked regarding psychological characteristics and cognitive behaviour of these two types of sex offenders and how their performancefluctuates through the three stages of offending. Through this research it was noted that the sex offender population analysed within the Corradino Correctional Facility is relatively low. However, sex offenders are still acknowlegded as being a risk to society, especially in institutions where minors frequent since, minors are considered as being the most vulnerable. Maltese cultural ideologies, the publicity/ bias of the media along with social stress are influential factors that psychologically affect both the offenders鈥榬eactions towards the Maltese society and vice versa. It is important to note that, our local scenario, highly lacks psychological treatments and cognitive- behaviour programmes towards the progression of sex offenders when they re-integrate back into society. Therefore, professionals described that presently, there are no available preventive measures that they can work upon to improve the behaviour of the sex offender during the three chronological stages of abuse.