A group-based trajectory analysis of sexual offenders' criminal history in Taiwan

In many countries, sexual crimes are highly concerned about social security issues. Research models attempted to establish a general framework to cover variability of sexual offences, however, they left changes of criminal course out of consideration. In this present study, research examines the official criminal records of 3750 adult sexual offenders by using group-based trajectory modeling technique. Our study identified a four-trajectory model for sexual offense which has more substantial meaning. These trajectories differed on recidivism and several key risk factor domains. These findings indicate heterogeneity of sexual offenders would be highlighted when take into account their changes of criminal course. The implications for the risk assessment and treatment are discussed.