Understanding sexual violence: The role of causal and precipitating factors in sexual offending

Sexual violence is a serious social problem and a growing concern worldwide. Research has been devoted to understanding the etiology of sexual violence. This chapter first reviews the outcome nature of sexual homicide, with particular emphasis given to the differences between homicidal and nonhomicidal sexual offenders. A comprehensive discussion on four widely cited causal and precipitating factors leading to violent sexual offending (i.e., childhood maltreatment, deviant sexual fantasies, pornography consumption, and alcohol and drug consumption) is provided. Regardless of the lethality outcome of the offense, these four risk factors play a key role in the commission of a sexual offense. In light of the empirical findings, implications for practice in the area of crime prevention are offered.