This video challenges a widespread misconception: that all, or almost all, perpetrators of sexual violence were themselves victims of sexual violence during their childhood. Scientific data shows that this claim is largely false.
Research, particularly international meta-analyses, indicates that approximately 70% of perpetrators of sexual violence do not report having been victims of sexual violence in their childhood. This proportion remains relatively stable over time, despite evolving social perceptions and greater recognition of sexual violence, which strengthens the reliability of these findings. Among all convicted perpetrators, approximately 35% report having experienced sexual violence, meaning that the majority have not experienced this specific type of trauma.
Among perpetrators of child sexual abuse, the proportion of individuals who were themselves victims in childhood is higher, but remains a minority: it is generally estimated to be between 30% and 50% depending on the studies, the populations studied, and the methods used. These figures clearly show that there is no automatic progression from victim to perpetrator.
However, research highlights that many perpetrators were exposed to other forms of violence in childhood: physical abuse, psychological violence, neglect, or a violent family environment. These experiences can weaken emotional and relational development and constitute risk factors, without necessarily leading to sexual violence in adulthood.
The video thus highlights a crucial distinction: understanding risk factors does not justify actions. Legally and morally, each person remains fully responsible for their behavior. A childhood marked by violence does not excuse acting out, but it should raise awareness of the need for early and appropriate preventative measures.
Effective prevention therefore relies on identifying children exposed to violence, providing them with care, supporting families, training professionals, and developing psychosocial skills. It is by intervening early, well before acts of violence occur, that we can sustainably reduce sexual violence.
