A recent meta-analysis reveals that the recidivism rate for female sex offenders is significantly low at just 3%, compared to approximately 13% for their male counterparts. Conducted by Franca Cortoni, a professor emeritus at Université de Montréal, the study analyzed data spanning 25 years from 1998 to 2023 and highlights the need for revised approaches in the criminal justice system.
Cortoni, who is affiliated with the International Centre for Comparative Criminology, emphasizes that women commit far fewer sexual offenses than men. Her findings update a previous meta-analysis from 2010, underscoring a consistent trend: women generally have lower rates of criminal behavior across various cultures and time periods.
Understanding the Gender Divide in Criminal Behavior
Cortoni attributes the low recidivism rate among women to historical and evolutionary factors that have shaped behavioral differences. “Historically, men were responsible for protecting the clan and hunting, while women looked after children and the well-being of the group,” she explained. This division has influenced how women express violence and engage in criminal activities, often taking fewer physical risks.
The underlying causes of criminal behavior also differ significantly between genders. Many incarcerated women have experienced substantial physical or sexual violence before turning to crime. This contrasts with the male experience, where trauma is typically externalized through aggression. Cortoni points out that women often internalize their trauma, leading to issues such as substance abuse and self-destructive behavior.
Addressing Blind Spots in Criminal Justice
Cortoni argues that traditional criminology has predominantly focused on male subjects, resulting in significant blind spots in understanding female criminal behavior. “Research conducted solely on men has left some serious blind spots,” she stated. This oversight can lead to ineffective rehabilitation programs that fail to address the specific needs of female offenders.
For decades, rehabilitation programs for women were often adaptations of those designed for men, neglecting the distinct profiles and needs of female offenders. Cortoni highlights that since the 1990s, reforms in correctional services have aimed to make these programs more responsive to women’s realities. This includes a shift away from a strict security focus towards providing psychological support and considering prior trauma.
The goal is not to grant women preferential treatment but to acknowledge that men and women function differently within the context of criminal behavior and reintegration. “It’s not about saying that women are better or worse than men; it’s about recognizing that men and women function differently,” Cortoni concluded.
This research serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of gender-specific approaches in the criminal justice system, ensuring that the unique circumstances surrounding female offenders are recognized and addressed.
For further details, refer to the study conducted by R. Karl Hanson et al, titled “The Sexual Recidivism Rates of Women Are Still Low: An Updated Meta-Analysis,” published in Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health in 2025.
