ABSTRACT
This study explores whether or not somatic and mental symptoms differentiate male sex offenders from others by self-report. The present study was a part of a comprehensive, seven-year (1986-1993) research project described elsewhere (Miccio-Fonseca, 2000, 1996). In the present study there were three groups: male sex offenders (N = 269), victims (males, N = 19) and family members who were in neither category (males, N = 64). The groups were compared with regard to their reporting experiencing somatic and mental symptoms over the last six months.
Sex offenders, victims, and their family members differed on fourteen self-reported mental symptoms. Sex offenders rated themselves higher on symptoms dealing with cognitive difficulties, and victims described themselves as experiencing more complaints regarding mood difficulties. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: <getinfo@haworthpressinc.com> Website: <https://www.HaworthPress.com> © 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]
