University Students' Perceptions of Child Sex Offender

Studies suggest that child sex offenders (CSOs) are stereotyped and discriminated against due to lack of knowledge and negative attitudes. Research has identified several important variables related to knowledge and attitudes such as gender and previously being a victim of child sexual abuse (CSA). Research has also linked accurate knowledge with an increase in positive attitudes. However, no research has identified a link between personally knowing a CSO and an effect on knowledge and attitudes. The current study aims to assess how gender, previous history of CSA, and knowing a CSO may influence knowledge and attitudes toward CSOs. Almost 400 undergraduate students completed a survey assessing knowledge and attitudes toward CSOs. The current study found that knowledge scores were higher for those who had previously been victims of child sexual abuse and those who knew a CSO. Attitudes toward CSOs did not vary between groups and knowledge did not vary based on gender.