NCJ Number
167603
Date Published
1997
Length
285 pages
Annotation
Based on two studies conducted by the authors, this book examines bias among professionals who work with victims of child sexual abuse and suggests how to recognize such bias and prevent it from negatively influencing the detection of child sexual abuse.
Abstract
The nationwide study examined a randomly drawn sample (n=656) of practicing professionals to determine the prevalence rates and characteristics of childhood sexual and physical abuse among the sample. It also focused on how and to what extent specific personal, professional, and case factors influence judgments about sexual abuse allegations. In the follow-up study, the authors examined the effects of a history of childhood abuse on respondents' mental health and on their personal relationships and professional behavior. In addition to describing the studies' methodologies, this book reports on the prevalence rates of childhood abuse among the respondents and describes some characteristics of the abused, the abuser, and the abuse. Also described are the personal and case factors that significantly influenced the respondents' credibility scores for the sexual abuse allegations as they were presented in the 16 vignettes. The effects of specific respondent and case factors on professional judgments about sexual abuse allegations are presented, discussed, and interpreted in the context of current literature. Other chapters present the effects of a childhood history of abuse on adult mental health; describe the effects of a childhood history of abuse on respondents' personal relationships and professional behavior; and discuss the implications of the findings for the education, training, and practice of professionals responsible for the care and protection of children and their families. Appended study instruments and materials, 352 references, and name and subject indexes