NCJ Number
170960
Journal
Journal of Sexual Aggression Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (1996) Pages: 87-98
Date Published
1996
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A small, qualitative research project focused on six children who were referred to projects of the National Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) in northern England because they were sexually abusing other children.
Abstract
The children were ages 11 and 12 when interviewed. Five were males and one was female. They had been involved in abuse when ages 8-11. Their victims were usually siblings, school friends, or cousins. They were referred for assessment or treatment to NSPCC teams. The data were collected by a social worker and a psychotherapist. They used an interview guideline but encouraged the participants to give as much information as possible. The researchers studied their histories, their offenses, and the treatment they received. Results revealed that it is unhelpful to children to ignore sexually abusive behaviors. All the children had experienced some kind of abuse. All had angry feelings that had not been addressed. The research also indicated that the most effective treatment combines cognitive behavioral work with creative psychotherapy for children, plus educative support for caregivers. 18 references (Author abstract modified)