IOWA
Telegraph Herald
by ERIK HOGSTROM
Sex abusers among the clergy differ from sex offenders in the general population, a researcher has noted.
"Most of the research on sex offenders emerges out of incarcerated clientele," said Thomas G. Plante, professor and chairman of the psychology department at Santa Clara University in California.
He edited the book, "Bless Me Father For I have Sinned: Perspectives on Sexual Abuse Committed by Roman Catholic Priests."
Research suggests lower education levels are prevalent among most sex offenders, unlike the clergy, who are highly educated.
Studies show the average IQ of priests at about 125.
"They are much smarter than the average person on the street," Plante said.
Determining the average IQ of the general public sex offender is difficult. However, a study of 255 incarcerated rapists in Massachusetts from 1980 to 1990 revealed an average IQ of 100 for the offenders - the same as that of the average American.