Mentally Retarded Sex Offenders

Abstract

Normal sexual functioning has only recently become a prerogative of mentally retarded persons. More often, the sexuality of women and men with mental handicaps has been viewed as deviant and as cause for concern, restrictive policies, and clinical intervention. This paper critically evaluates scientific evidence for and against mentally retarded persons' increased risk of committing sexual offenses. Etiological theories of sexual offenses among the target population are discussed in detail. In addition, the authors describe treatment strategies for mentally retarded sexual offenders. Finally, the paper gives directions for future behavioral and social science research on issues concerning sexual offenses among mentally retarded persons.