NCJ Number
111652
Journal
Journal of Counseling and Development Volume: 66 Issue: 8 Dated: (April 1988) Pages: 370-373
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the nature and prevalence of child sexual abuse, examines the myths of realities, and presents recommendations for interviewing suspected victims.
Abstract
Reports of child sexual abuse continue to rise, and, in all probability, many more cases go unreported. The existence of various myths further compound the problem counselors face when working with these children. In general, the following conclusions are supported: (1) child sexual abuse is more common than many people believe, (2) sexual attraction is not the primary motive for most child sexual abuse, and (3) most child molesters are known to their victims. Also, child sexual abuse is not a reflection of the sexual revolution, and is most often part of a behavior pattern between adult and child. Finally, children tend to be truthful about their self-reports of sexual abuse. Recommendations for interviewing suspected victims include choosing an informal setting, using an understandable and comfortable interview method, emphasizing that what happened to them is not their fault, and avoiding display of shock and disapproval. 22 references. (Publisher abstract modified)