Sexually assaultive male juveniles: a follow-up

The purpose of this study was to investigate the adult outcome of a group of male juveniles who committed sexual assault.

Nineteen sexually assaultive male juveniles and a comparison group of 58 violent juveniles were studied over an 8-year period through use of criminal records and clinical interviews.

Although in adolescence the two groups were similarly violent, on follow-up those who had committed sexual assault were significantly more likely to commit adult sexual offenses. They also committed significantly more violent nonsexual offenses. Childhood sexual abuse, especially by females, was associated with adult sexual offenses.

Sexually assaultive delinquents are at particularly high risk for subsequent violence. Hence, special efforts must be made to treat these delinquents in adolescence. Prevention of violent sexual behavior must include improved methods of detecting sexual abuse, especially that perpetrated by older females.