Comparisons of psychopathology between intellectually disabled sexual offenders and intellectually disabled nonoffenders.

摘要

Research pertaining to psychopathology within intellectually disabled sexual offenders is particularly lacking, and it is a population in need of further review and investigation. This study examined the prevalence of various categories of psychopathology between mildly intellectually disabled sexual offenders and a control group of mildly intellectually disabled nonoffenders. Additional information pertaining to prevalence of psychotropic medications and maladaptive behaviors were also examined.;Archival data were acquired on 73 mildly intellectually disabled sexual offenders residing in Porterville Developmental Center and from 98 mildly intellectually disabled nonoffenders who are clients of the Central Valley Regional Center. Chi-square statistical tests were utilized to compare both groups across various categories of mental disorders, psychotropic medications, and maladaptive behaviors. The results revealed 88% of the intellectually disabled sexual offenders group were found to be diagnosed with an Axis I or Axis II disorder in comparison to 33% within the control group. Significant differences and greater prevalence rates were found in the intellectually disabled sexual offenders group in comparison to the control group along the following categories as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev., DSM-IV-TR, American Psychiatric Association, 2000): impulse control disorders not elsewhere classified, paraphilias, and personality disorders. The results of this study help bring attention to potential distinguishing characteristics found within intellectually disabled sexual offenders.