NCJ Number
108818
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 31 Issue: 3 Dated: (December 1987) Pages: 211-226
Date Published
1987
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Two groups of male prisoners, 37 violent and 32 sex offenders with no history of violent crimes, were compared on measures of hostility, self-consciousness, fear of negative evaluation, criminal history, and family background.
Abstract
The intent of the study was to identify factors which may have some value for predicting risk for violent or sex-related crimes. Sex offenders, in general, reported more social anxiety, fear of negative appraisal, and indirect hostility than assaultive individuals. A multiple regression analysis showed that three factors -- total hostility, fear of negative criticism, and social skill deficits -- were the 'best' predictors of total violent crimes, whereas total sex crimes could not be predicted by any factor. The article discusses the possible links between hostility, self-consciousness, and criminal behavior. (Author abstract modified)