NCJ Number
98753
Editor(s)
R Porter
Date Published
1984
Length
172 pages
Annotation
This handbook on the management of incest victims and their families defines this type of sexual abuse, summarizes the characteristics of incestuous families, identifies ways in which incest is presented to professionals, and considers the management of such cases.
Abstract
The discussion focuses on sexual abuse involving father/stepfather and daughter as well as father/stepfather and son. Case management is considered by examining how professional intervention modes become linked to the family system and how this intervention changes the family dynamics. Therapeutic intervention requires legal procedures for dealing with child abuse in general and a consideration of how legal and professional services could be more effectively organized to respond to reported cases of child sexual abuse. The general plan of case management presented ensures a therapeutic orientation toward dealing with the family; suggestions detail how to integrate police, legal, child care, and protection efforts in a therapeutic approach. Detailed planning at each phase of the intervention is described. Treatment methods used by various agencies across the country are examined. Prevention approaches describe sex education in schools and at home, and instruction for children in the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touching. The long-term harmful effects on the victims of incest are described, and resources for helping the child, adult, and family as well as the helping professional are suggested. The appendix contains case reports, and 61 references are listed. Name and subject indexes are provided.