Sexual Murderers /Rapists: A General Profile

It is clear that blaming uncontrolled, intense sexual lust as a cause for rape is too simplistic. Evidence suggests that sexual deprivation is not an essential component for rape (Howitt, 1991 a). Moreover, in many rape cases, there is violence involved. According to Loyd and Walmsley (1989), rape cases in the UK are typically accompanied by violence. One victim in eight requires hospital care post victimisation. Thus, the motives behind rape are far more complex than the classic libidinous needs alone.

Offender profiler, Hazelwood (1987) suggested that rape can manifest in a variety of forms and the following types of rapists should be considered:

1. The power-assurance rapist aka ‘‘opportunity rapist or gentleman rapist’’:

This is the most common type of rapist. The rapist is engaging in the offence in an attempt to manage or deal with his insecurities regarding his masculinity. In most cases, the offence will not help with the deep insecurities experienced by the rapist, therefore he will offend again after a short period of time (7–15 day cycle — biological clock). He is insecure and needs a confirmation of his manhood (believes that the victim enjoyed the rape), feels deeply inadequate with women (self-doubt). Moreover, he wants to possess, not harm, and restore…