THE RECIDIVISM OF RAPISTS: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF STATIC AND DYNAMIC RISK FACTORS
Abstract
The aim of this retrospective study was to examine the association between static and dynamic risk factors and recidivism among convicted rapists in the Republic of Serbia. The sample comprised 560 convicted rapists recorded between 2014 and 2023, with data collected from official records of correctional institutions. The analysis included static risk factors, such as demographic characteristics, criminal history, and sentence length, as well as dynamic factors, including substance abuse, participation in rehabilitation programs, and engagement in work and educational activities. The results indicate that recidivists of other sexual offenses (excluding rape) were older than non-recidivists, whereas education, marital status, and sentence length did not show significant differences. Personality disorders were significantly more prevalent among recidivists, particularly those who committed other sexual offenses, whereas employment engagement was more frequent among non-recidivists. Participation in rehabilitation programs, particularly anger management, was more common among rape recidivists. Alcohol and drug-related issues did not reach statistical significance. The findings highlight the necessity of integrated assessment of static and dynamic risk factors in recidivism prevention, with personality disorders and work engagement being especially relevant for risk evaluation. These results have practical implications for treatment and risk assessment, emphasising the recommendation for longitudinal follow-up after release from prison.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22190/TEME251222018B
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