NCJ Number
110623
Journal
Judges' Journal Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter 1988) Pages: 20-23,40-42
Date Published
1988
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article provides judges with information about the problem of child sexual abuse, its incidence, the victims, the offenders, and the roles of the judicial and social service systems in responding to this social problem.
Abstract
In a recent survey of judges, over 68 percent agreed that child sexual abuse offenses are rampant and should be prosecuted. A review of child sexual abuse research finds that child sexual victimization can be categorized as rape, sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation. While the actual number of child sexual abuse cases in the United States is not known, it is assumed that the actual incidence is at least several times greater than the reported incidence. Every State during the last 10 years has enacted mandatory reporting laws for child sexual abuse. Most experts believe that the actual amount of child sexual abuse is not increasing but that better detection and reporting are making increased detection possible. Profiles describe the typical child victim and adult sex offender. The author concludes that judges sensitive to the dynamics of sexual abuse cases are in the best position to act responsibly and to meet the special needs of child victims while also protecting the rights of the alleged offender. 39 footnotes.