Adult Victimization of Female Offenders as a Pathway into Crime- an Examination of the Victim-Offender Overlap

Schmees, Nina (2023) Adult Victimization of Female Offenders as a Pathway into Crime- an Examination of the Victim-Offender Overlap. Master thesis, Psychology.

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Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, the number of female inmates has increased dramatically, calling for examining women and criminality. When investigating gender differences in crime, adult victimization (VIC) appears as a female-exclusive pathway into offending. Psychopathologies often arise after victimization and disproportionately affect women, which could explain a relationship. There is a lack of synthesis on whether an adult victim-offender overlap exists. In this review, I ask in what way adult victimization is associated with criminal offending in women, and if the proposed relationship is mediated by psychopathology. Methods: The Systematic Review (PRISMA) supports the assessment of the state of research on the topic. The search is based on the psychology research platform “PsychInfo”. Results: Included are 18 studies. VIC and Interpartner Violence (IPV) are common among female inmates and appear as pathways into crime. Adult Physical Abuse (PA) shows some support for its role in offending. Substance Use (SUB) and Personality Disorders (PD) may mediate the relationship, with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a potential second mediator. Discussion: I found evidence for an association between victimization and offending. The relationship is possibly mediated by SUB and PDs and PTSD. Limitations: Polyvictimization and Child Abuse/Neglect (CAN) cannot entirely be excluded from the influence of VIC on offending. Most studies examining psychopathology rely on qualitative data, limiting our understanding of potential pathways. Implications: Future research should focus on consequences of prior VIC and IPV on incarcerated women, to build adequate treatment, improve well-being and reduce recidivism.

Item Type:	Thesis (Master)
Supervisor name:	Karsten, J.
Degree programme:	Psychology
Differentiation route:	Clinical Forensic Psychology and Victimology (FP) [Master Psychology]
Date Deposited:	14 Aug 2023 12:00
Last Modified:	14 Aug 2023 12:00
URI:	http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/2748

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