Date of Award
Fall 12-29-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department/Program
Forensic Psychology
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Elizabeth Jeglic
Second Reader
Rebecca Weiss
Third Advisor
Cynthia Calkins
Abstract
This study examined the potential association between perpetrator substance use, anger, and aggressive behavior in the commission of sexual crimes. The sample included 246 adult males convicted of rape (n = 54) or child molestation (n = 192). Descriptive statistics revealed that 64.6% of the individuals in this sample (n = 159) were intoxicated at the time of the offense. Results showed that perpetrators who used substances at the time of the offense were more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior toward the victim (e.g., weapon use, verbal abuse) than those who did not. Offenders with higher pervasive anger scores were also more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior toward the victim. Further, individuals convicted of rape were more likely to receive higher pervasive anger scores, use substances at the time of the offense, and exhibit aggressive behavior compared to individuals convicted of child molestation. The findings indicate that substance use and anger should be addressed in treatment programs for individuals convicted of sexual crimes. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Rivera, Dominique, "Exploring the Relationship Between Anger, Aggression, and Perpetrator Substance Use in the Commission of Sexual Offenses" (2020). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/178