NCJ Number
106038
Journal
Child Abuse and Neglect Volume: 11 Issue: 2 Dated: (1987) Pages: 213-221
Date Published
1987
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This study tested the role of the physician as part of an investigative team in corroborating disclosures of child sexual abuse and in determining the level of probability of abuse when there has been no disclosure.
Abstract
In this study, 63 patients examined for probability of sexual abuse were judged 'unfounded' in 14.3 percent of the cases. Physicians judged 65 percent of the group 'probable' or 'determined.' Of the 16 children examined, 11 were found to be victims of child sexual abuse. Of the remaining five children, three were felt to be 'uncertain,' and two 'unfounded.' In 15 of these cases, there had been no disclosure. In one case, the perpetrator pleaded guilty. The physician can be valuable in corroborating previously obtained disclosures and in determining the level of probability of sexual abuse when there has been no disclosure. 8 tables and 9 references. (Author abstract modified)