Rapists' offense processes : a preliminary descriptive model Polaschek, Devon L. L.; Hudson, Stephen M.; Ward, Tony; Siegert, Richard J.
Material type:
Journal of Interpersonal Violence 16(6) June 2001 : 523-544
This article presents the results of a New Zealand study to develop a descriptive model of the offense process for adult rapists. Using a qualitative approach, the study obtained details from 24 imprisoned offenders of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviour prior to and during their most recent rape. The data was analysed using a grounded theory approach. The resulting model contains six phases covering: background factors, goal formation, approach behaviour, offense preparation, the offense and post offense behaviour. These phases are discussed in detail in the article. The model has implications for taxonomy and programme development.