#23 - Sex Offender Database

I tried to find recent studies reporting the recidivism rate for sex offenders. Recidivism means the chance that someone will commit another sex crime.

The results vary widely.

The problem is that the term sex offender is used to describe child molesters, incest, rapists, and exhibitionists. The focus of FINDING A VOICE is to address issues related to only child molesters. The other problem with locating accurate data regarding the likelihood of an offender commiting another sex crime is that sex crimes are under reported.

The results are based on a small sampling of a select group of offenders.

Most people who commit sex crimes against children (99% of which are male offenders) are not prosecuted and, therefore, not in jail.

The best we can do for now to protect our children is to be as alert as possible and for authorities to monitor those convicted of child molestation. Because the reality is... many can and will reoffend.

Here is the United States Department of Justice database. Please note that in the majority of searches you will need to provide your identity to access the database:




National Sex Offender Public Registry

#22 - Domestic Violence - Power and Control

To this day I can recall the stern warning given by my first professor of psychology (one of many, many courses):

"We marry what we know."

He meant to explain that we tend to repeat patterns in relationships.

This can happen to survivors of childhood abuse. We don't go out there looking for an abusive partner, but if we lack insight and healing from past trauma... we may not know what to avoid.

Domestic violence does not occur in isolation between the couple. There is a 50% to 70% chance of the children in the relationship being abused also. (Finding Safety and Support: Some facts about domestic violence)

Children who witness domestic violence are at increased risk for :

"... health problems, sleeping difficulties, anxiety, acting out behavior, and feelings of guilt, fear and powerlessness. They are at high risk for alcohol and drug use, teen pregnancy, homelessness, and suicide. Research suggests that there is an increased risk for boys who grow up in homes in which there is domestic violence to perpetrate domestic violence in their adult intimate relationships"
( Finding Safety and Support: Some facts about domestic violence)

Many people conclude that if they are not being hit, there is no sign of domestic violence in the relationship.

This is a misconception.

The reality is that domestic violence occurs when there is an imbalance of power in the relationship. The primary form of abuse in a domestic violent relationship is emotional.

Here is an excellent explanation of the interpersonal dynamics that occur in an abusive relationship:

EDVP About Domestic Violence: Power and Control

What should you do if you are in an abusive relationship?

Break the silence. Talk to someone safe. Below are some online resources to assist you:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) - Break the silence, make the call.

#21 - Survivors of Sexual Abuse by Priests

S.N.A.P. is the internet home base for suvrvivors of sexual abuse perpetrated by priests.

SNAP - The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests

This is an excellent resource for those of you who have suffered such abuse, but also an excellent resource for all sex abuse survivors, their loved ones and advocates.

Peace to All Who Enter Here

#20 - Breaking News from CNN from Catholic Church

-- Roman Catholic archdiocese of Dublin report says 102 priests are suspected of sexually or physically abusing at least 350 children since 1940, The Associated Press reports:

CNN.com - Priests abused hundreds of Irish kids, church says - Mar 8, 2006

#19 - Protect Child Refugees in the U.S.

I have just read and signed the petition: "Help Refugee Children Get a Fair Hearing – Pass H.R. 1172"

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/696485245

Please take a moment to review this site and add your name to the petition.

Thanks!