New research reveals that the recidivism rate for female sex offenders is significantly lower than that of their male counterparts. A meta-analysis conducted by Franca Cortoni, a professor emeritus at the University of Montreal, indicates that only 3% of women reoffend after returning to the community, compared to approximately 13% for men. This analysis, which examines data collected from 1998 to 2023, updates findings from a previous study conducted in 2010.
Cortoni’s work, which draws on data from 4,208 women, highlights the need for a shift away from a male-centric approach in the criminal justice system. She asserts that the low recidivism rate among women reflects broader trends across different cultures and time periods, emphasizing that women commit fewer crimes than men. Cortoni attributes this disparity to evolutionary roles, stating, “Historically, men were responsible for protecting the clan and hunting, while women looked after children and the well-being of the group. These roles have shaped enduring behavioral differences.”
Understanding these differences is critical, as the factors contributing to criminal behavior also vary significantly between genders. Cortoni notes that many incarcerated women have a history of experiencing severe physical or sexual violence prior to their offenses. This victimization is a common thread across various types of crime and contrasts with the experiences of male offenders.
Men typically externalize their trauma through aggression and anger, whereas women often internalize it, leading to issues such as substance abuse and self-destructive behavior. Cortoni highlights that this internalized suffering is evident in the prevalence of self-harm among incarcerated women. The pathways to crime also differ; for women, substance abuse frequently precedes criminal behavior, while men often engage in delinquent lifestyles concurrently with substance use.
Addressing Gender-Specific Needs in the Justice System
Cortoni emphasizes the importance of recognizing the distinct needs of women in the criminal justice system. She argues that much of the research in criminology has been based on male subjects, resulting in significant gaps in understanding female offenders. “We’ve seen this, for example, with heart attacks and with sexuality,” she explains. “Research conducted solely on men has left some serious blind spots.”
It is crucial to note that acknowledging gender differences in criminal behavior is not mere stereotyping; rather, it is a matter of scientific accuracy. “Crime is not gender-neutral,” Cortoni states. “As long as we continue to treat women the same as men in the justice system, we’ll overlook what led them there.” Historically, rehabilitation programs for female offenders mirrored those designed for men, often disregarding the unique needs and profiles of women.
Since the 1990s, there have been reforms aimed at making correctional services more responsive to the realities faced by women. These changes include a reduced focus on security, increased psychological support, and greater consideration of prior trauma and parenting responsibilities. Cortoni stresses the importance of these adjustments, stating, “It’s not about giving women preferential treatment but recognizing that criminal behavior and reintegration differ for men and women.”
As the field of criminology evolves, understanding the nuances of female criminal behavior will be essential for developing effective interventions and support systems. Cortoni’s research, published in the journal “Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health,” serves as a reminder of the necessity for gender-specific approaches in the justice system.
For further reading, refer to R. Karl Hanson’s study, “The Sexual Recidivism Rates of Women Are Still Low: An Updated Meta-Analysis,” which provides an in-depth examination of this topic. The findings underscore the importance of tailoring rehabilitation efforts to enhance the reintegration of women into society.
