Including Siblings in the Treatment of Child Sexual Abuse

• NCJ Number: 195501
• Journal: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 10 Issue: 3 Dated: 2001 Pages: 1-16
• Author(s): Juanita N. Baker; Hayley J. Tanis; Jennifer B. Rice
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study focused on the benefits and reasons for including siblings in the treatment of intrafamilial sexual abuse, as well as caretaker abuse and described the benefits and impact of the Family Learning Program treatment model.

Abstract

It has not been the norm to include siblings of children who have been sexually abused in treatment programs. However, there are many theoretical and practical reasons to believe that siblings of abused children can and should be involved in the treatment process especially when the abuse is intrafamilial. This article discusses the reasons and rationale for including siblings in treatment programs that include: (1) personal safety factors; (2) the abuse significantly impacts the entire family; (3) abuse may signal certain dysfunctional family patterns in need of treatment for the entire family; and (4) therapy groups help siblings understand that sexual abuse occurred in their family and reduces the shame and stigmatization. Siblings of children who have been sexually abused face many issues; the conflict encountered in relation to their loyalties to their parents and sibling, blaming the victim for instigating the abuse, and dealing with legal issues involved with sexual abuse. Including siblings in treatment allows families to realize the maximum benefits of therapy for the victim and family members. This article presents case examples of the Family Learning Program to acknowledge a model of comprehensive treatment for sexually abused children and their families. This outpatient program offers support and psychological treatment to families where sexual abuse has occurred by a caretaker. The Family Learning Program incorporates the entire sibling group offering many benefits. Including siblings in the treatment emphasizes the systemic nature of the abuse and offers siblings a place to talk safely about the subject of abuse. Siblings are able to gain knowledge, confidence, and social skills so that they may go on to lead normal, healthy lives. References