This is a complex and sensitive topic, and it is crucial to first clarify the data surrounding this issue.

While sexual abuse of children is predominantly perpetrated by males, studies in some regions have shown an increase in the number of women being charged, convicted, or identified as perpetrators in recent years. For instance, data from Australia shows an almost 208% increase in the number of women in the criminal justice system for sexual offenses from 2008 to 2023. In the US, while only about 8% of verified cases have a female perpetrator, this figure varies widely by state (1% to over 36%).  

It is important to understand that the increase in official statistics may be due to a combination of factors, including both a true rise in occurrence and, more likely, an increase in reporting and detection.

Reasons for the Increase in Reported Cases

The perceived or actual increase in female-perpetrated child sexual abuse (FPCSA) can be attributed to several factors:

1. Increased Awareness and Reporting: Historically, there was a widespread cultural misconception that only males commit sexual abuse. This bias led to the under-reporting and under-detection of female offenders. As public awareness, professional training (e.g., among social workers and police), and reporting mechanisms have improved, people are more likely to report female perpetrators, leading to higher official statistics.  

2. Shifting Gender Roles and Access: As women increasingly occupy positions of authority and care outside the home (such as in schools, childcare, or coaching), their opportunities for access to children increase. This change in societal roles has, unfortunately, created more contexts where abuse can occur outside the family home.

3. Focus on Non-Contact and Digital Offenses: The rapid growth of online child sexual exploitation and abuse may also be contributing to the increase in reported female perpetrators. While this is less researched for female offenders, the overall surge in digital abuse may uncover more cases involving female co-offenders or primary perpetrators in the digital space.

Underlying Risk Factors for Female Perpetrators

Research on the motivations and backgrounds of female perpetrators suggests they share many risk factors with male perpetrators, often rooted in past trauma and psychological difficulties:  

• Victimization History: A high percentage of female sexual offenders are survivors of severe childhood trauma, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect, which can lead to complex psychological issues.  

• Mental Health Issues: Female perpetrators are often found to have significant mental health problems, including substance abuse disorders, personality disorders, and difficulties with impulsivity and emotional regulation.  

• Context of the Abuse: Unlike the typical media portrayal of a stranger, female perpetrators are overwhelmingly individuals known to the victim—often a mother, family member, or trusted caregiver. The abuse is frequently perpetrated within the victim’s own residence. Furthermore, co-offending with a male partner is a factor in a significant percentage of cases.  

It is crucial that the severity of abuse by a female perpetrator is not minimized, as research shows that the psychological and emotional harm is often as severe as abuse by a male perpetrator.  

If you or someone you know is concerned about the safety of a child or is struggling with harmful sexual thoughts or behaviors, please seek help immediately.

In the United States, you can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.