Interpersonal relationships allow children to learn how to recognise emotional experiences, as well as how to use socially acceptable manners. Among different variables explaining the conduct of young offenders, the lack of emotional competence and an insecure attachment bond are particularly relevant. The assessment of personal history and the Adult Attachment Interview of two users of the Minors Social Service Office (USSM) of Palermo, accused of a sexual offense, has highlighted a lack of intimacy in relationships, compensated in a dysfunctional way by an abusive conduct. The analysis of these two cases is supported by including the description of transformative objectives of the psychosocial intervention oriented to young offenders.
Keywords: Young offenders, attachment, emotional competence, sexual abuse, close relationships, psychosocial intervention
Francesca Paola Ammirata, Maria Garro, Martino Lo Cascio, Aluette Merenda, Paola Miano, Attachment experiences and emotional competence in young sex offenders in "PSICOLOGIA DI COMUNITA’" 2/2013, pp. 41-46, DOI:10.3280/PSC2013-002005