https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/120852 2026-04-10T22:03:42Z 2026-04-10T22:03:42Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141934 2025-12-04T11:15:45Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Sentencing in Maltese courts : a gender based analysis Abstract: This thesis is set to explore whether discrepancies exist between male and female offenders who appear in front of the Court of Magistrates (Criminal Judicature) and to explore the reasons why this occurs. Another aim of this study is to identify which types of crimes are mostly committed by females in Malta and whether aggravating factors and/or mitigating factors as well as sympathetic life circumstances can influence the type of sentence meted out. In order to answer the research questions a comparison and analysis between similar crimes committed by females and males was performed. The theoretical framework used in this research is that of the Focal Concerns Theory which attributes the more lenient sentences received by female offenders to the fact that the judiciary see female offenders as less blameworthy, less dangerous to society and to practical constraints both on an individual level as well as on a logistical level. The other theory to be tested is the Paternalism/Chivalry Theory which states that the judiciary views female offenders as naïve and therefore in need to protection. Hence they are meted out lenient sentences. This theory also includes the Evil Woman Hypothesis which states that when female offenders commit a crime which is usually perpetrated by males, the female offender will be met with harsher penalties because she is breaking the law and most importantly, she is going against socially accepted gender norms. The research method used in this thesis is that of a Mixed Methods approach. The quantitative research method consisted of gathering data of female offenders who were found guilty of a crime from criminal court sentences published online from the year 2005 to the year 2020. Subsequently the crimes were compared with similar crimes committed by males in the years 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020. The factual information gathered through the quantitative approach helped in formulating the semi-structured interview guide which was used to interview ten professionals working/or used to work in the criminal justice field. A thematic analysis was used as a qualitative research method to place the author in a better position to answer the research questions while portraying exactly the participants’ opinions and experiences on the subject matter. The results of the quantitative approach clearly showed that there are gender discrepancies in Maltese criminal sentencing. Other results include the facts that Females are associated with Assault, Financial crimes, Sexual offenses, and Threats and that Assault is more common among EU and Non-EU Females and that Females are consistently associated with non-incarceration sentences, while males are associated with incarceration sentences. Different themes emerged after an in-depth analysis of the information gathered from participants; Female Offenders’ Demeanor in Court; Societal Views and Gender Stereotypes influencing the Criminal Court’s View of Female Offenders; the Validity of the Evil Woman Hypothesis, Sentencing Practice Outcomes between Male and Female Magistrates and finally the Introduction of Sentencing Guidelines in the Maltese Criminal Court Context. This research highlights the importance of the introduction of sentencing guidelines in the Maltese Criminal Court system. Another policy recommendation is to provide training in relation to stereotypical attitudes to the Judiciary. Description: Ph.D.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/128171 2024-10-28T14:30:12Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Working with male victims of sexual abuse : understanding the phenomenon of underreporting Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine and comprehend the viewpoint of professionals on the occurrence of underreporting of male victims of sexual abuse. In order to accomplish this goal, the following objectives were formulated: The objectives of this study are: 1) to understand the occurrence of underreporting among male victims of sexual abuse, 2) to examine the factors that may deter male victims from reporting their experiences, taking into account professionals' perspectives, and 3) to investigate the barriers perceived by professionals that male victims face when reporting sexual abuse. The qualitative research strategy was the most effective method to address the study question. The data was gathered through a semi-structured interview guide designed to address the study issue. An exclusive, in-person, and comprehensive interview was conducted with six experts who were deliberately chosen due to their direct engagement with male victims of sexual abuse. The interviews were recorded in an audio format with the participants' consent, and proper authorisation was obtained for transcription purposes. Stringent compliance with ethical values was maintained. The theoretical frameworks of hegemonic masculinity and victim-blaming theories guided this research. Thematic analysis was utilised for both data collection and data analysis. The study emphasised the professionals' perspectives regarding male victims of sexual abuse. The study revealed three super-ordinate themes: "the unbreakable man," which challenged the belief that men cannot be sexually abused; "shattering the taboo," which explored societal perceptions and reactions towards male victims of sexual abuse; and "out of sight, out of mind," which emphasised the deficient availability of appropriate support settings for male victims and the necessity for new policies to address these shortcomings. Findings from this study demonstrated that several variables influence the disclosure of sexual abuse experienced by male victims. The early cultivation of a nurturing masculine culture affects men's perception of sexual abuse. Participants also noted that male victims of sexual abuse have a profound disruption to their sense of self as men, and they fear stigmatisation, such as homosexuality, if they report the abuse. Participants explained that in Malta, male victims have additional obstacles as they are often overlooked, and society tends to believe that men cannot be victims of sexual abuse. Thus, it is crucial that adequate training is provided to professionals specialising in assisting male victims. Findings further revealed how current services cater to both female and male victims of sexual abuse. However, they are insufficient, and there are no comprehensive shelters or support services that target only male victims. This study also highlighted the necessity of enhancing policies about male victims of sexual abuse. Introducing an NGO that exclusively focuses on male victims can significantly be beneficial to male victims by encouraging them to come forward and share their experiences. Due to the scarcity of research on this topic, further research in this area would be highly beneficial. Description: B.A. (Hons) Criminology(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/128168 2024-10-28T14:28:04Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The use of blood pattern analysis to strengthen forensic evidence in solving crimes Abstract: This dissertation aims to obtain a deeper insight into the forensic field of blood pattern analysis and understand the reasoning behind it being considered such a fundamental part of crime scene investigation. This was accomplished by investigating the basic ideas of blood patterns, including their historical development, the properties and production of bloodstains, the scientific methodology used in analysis, and other factors that have shaped the forensic field. BPA's critical position in crime scene reconstruction is highlighted along with its multidisciplinary basis, utilising concepts from biology, physics and mathematics. Through the examination of bloodstain features and trajectory analysis, BPA provides important information about the dynamics of violent events. From the traditional work of Dr. Eduard Piotrowski to modern technological advancements, the review traces the evolution of BPA, underscoring its transition from subjective interpretations to objective scientific methodologies. The qualitative desk-based method used for this study entailed collecting data solely from case studies and already-published literature sources without direct contact with individuals. This method was selected primarily to mitigate ethical concerns whilst facilitating the collection of rich and detailed information from publicly available sources. However, due to the wealth of information available, a thematic analysis process was used to gain a deeper understanding of the research question by finding the key themes that provided insight into the complex nature of blood pattern analysis. Overall, the results achieved from this research suggested that blood pattern analysis is considered an important component in forensic investigations as the analysis of the shape,angle and directionality of blood revealed their significant contribution to understanding the dynamics of violent events and reconstructing of crime scenes. This study confirms the value of blood pattern analysis as a forensic instrument, emphasising its critical function in clarifying the circumstances surrounding violent confrontations and assisting in the pursuit of justice through careful investigation. Description: B.A. (Hons) Criminology(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/128167 2024-10-28T14:26:12Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Terrorism and the role of women foreign fighters Abstract: Recently, women have joined these terrorist ranks in increasingly large numbers as they were recruited for their capabilities in roles, such as caregiver, communicator, suicide terrorist or recruiter of other female foreign fighters. Capabilities and roles, such as caregiver, communicator, suicide bomber, and recruiter. This utopian society created by groups like ISIS, imposing the rule of Islamic law, often serves as a compelling argument for women, particularly when their recruitment can be coupled with personal grievances and a sense of alienation. The case studies of Muriel Degauque, Sam El Hassani, and Shamima Begum represent diverse methods of recruitment and how far reaching the consequences were for themselves, their loved ones, the communities and also on global aspect. These case studies underline that understanding root causes and processes leading to radicalization is a must, to put forward a tangible proactive prevention policy within a counter-terrorism strategy. Description: B.A. (Hons) Criminology(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z