Females who sexually offend

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the current knowledge in regard to females who engage in sexually harmful behaviour (HSB).

Design/methodology/approach

This is a brief paper, reviewing current literature.

Findings

This paper argues the continual limitations in fully understanding this population. However, it suggests the importance of progressing to discuss patterns of offending as opposed to typologies.

Practical implications

This argues the importance of effective formulation and consideration of patterns when understanding HSB in females.

Originality/value

This is a current brief review of the literature, summarising key thinking in this area, and some suggested ways forward for further progression.

Citation

Ireland, C., Ozanne, R. and Ireland, J. (2016), "Females who sexually offend", The Journal of Forensic Practice, Vol. 18 No. 4, pp. 296-300. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFP-07-2016-0032