NCJ Number
100479
Date Published
1985
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This chapter examines the increasing incidence of reported child sexual abuse in New York State and discusses the dynamics of significant relationships in child sexual abuse.
Abstract
A study of 201 sexual abuse cases reported in New York City between 1977 and 1979 indicates that 56 percent of the reports could not be substantiated. Of substantiated cases, 86 percent were female. Victims' ages ranged from 10 months to 17 years and 11 months. Offenders were generally someone the child knew and trusted, often a family member. The abuse ranged from fondling to anal or vaginal penetration and occurred on more than one occasion in 51 percent of cases. The study found that while force is generally not used, offenders often resorted to threats, exercised authority, or abused the child's trust and affection in gaining compliance often causing the child to feel guilty and responsible for the abuse. Family factors associated with abuse include poor communication, social isolation, role reversal, and unsatisfying marital relationships. Poor child supervision and intergenerational occurrence of abuse also may be factors. While sexual abuse may cause physical injury, the most harmful effects are psychological. Victim, offender, and family treatment are indicated. 4 notes and 25 references.