A major international study analysing the accounts of nearly 700 men accused of child sexual abuse has revealed common patterns in how offenders attempt to justify their actions.
The research, published in PLOS Biology, examined accounts from 39 studies involving perpetrators from multiple countries including Norway, Brazil, Malawi and New Zealand.
Researchers said the most common explanation given by offenders was portraying children as willing participants, despite the fact that children cannot legally or ethically consent to sexual activity with adults.
Study examined global offender accounts
According to researchers, many offenders blamed alcohol, drugs, childhood trauma or emotional distress for their actions, while others claimed they were seeking excitement or believed they were “educating” or “helping” the child.
Some offenders also attempted to shift responsibility onto victims by describing children as “flirtatious” or claiming they were “tempted”.
Researchers found that several offenders displayed strong patterns of misogyny, entitlement and patriarchal thinking, particularly in cases where abuse was linked to anger towards adult partners or family conflicts.
Researchers call for stronger awareness efforts
The study found that some perpetrators framed abuse as retaliation against partners, while others expressed beliefs that they were entitled to sexual access and obedience.
Lead researcher Thomas Püschel and the research team said the findings highlight the need for stronger education around consent, gender equality and harmful social attitudes linked to sexual violence.
Experts also stressed the importance of challenging rape myths and addressing beliefs that normalise abuse or diminish accountability.
Researchers believe prevention efforts targeting misogyny, entitlement and harmful attitudes towards women and children could also help reduce child sexual abuse.
Support organisations have urged people affected by abuse or trauma to seek professional help and counselling services