Hypersexuality and Recidivism among Sexual Offenders

Abstract

Hypersexuality is a dimensional indicator of sexual interest and behavior and typically includes the frequency, intensity, and time consumed by sexual activity. Hypersexuality has been identified as a psychologically meaningful risk factor for sexual offending. In fact, a relatively high proportion of sexual offenders report hypersexual behavior and this construct seems to be associated with re-offending in these men. The purpose of the present longitudinal investigation was to examine the rate of an objective, behavioral indicator of hypersexuality (Total Sexual Outlet) among 586 adult male sexual offenders and to determine the predictive utility of Total Sexual Outlet utilizing one of the longest follow-up periods used with sexual offenders (up to 20 years). Results indicated that approximately 12% of men met the clinical criterion for hypersexuality and that the presence of this construct was significantly associated with long-term sexual and violent recidivism. Results are discussed in terms of the importance of hypersexuality as an empirically supported risk factor and treatment target among sexual offenders.