Relatively little research data exists regarding women who sexually abuse children, yet the public awareness of this crime type has been raised in recent years with high-profile investigations of child sexual abuse offenses perpetrated by females. This presentation explores the degree to which the arousals, thoughts, and behaviors of women who sexually exploit children are similar or different to male perpetrators. Using a number of case studies this presentation challenges preconceptions about women’s involvement in the sexual exploitation of children.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the typical nature and extent of female sexual abuse of children.
Recognize the distorted thinking employed by female perpetrators to justify their abusive behavior.
Recognize the approaches to grooming used by female perpetrators.
