NCJ Number
184181
Journal
Child Abuse Review Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: May-June 2000 Pages: 183-199
Date Published
2000
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This British study reviewed 30 evaluations of child sexual abuse prevention programs that targeted children, parents, and teachers.
Abstract
The evaluation studies were selected according to a set of methodological criteria following an extensive manual and computer literature search. Targets for intervention in 17 studies were children; parents were the focus in three programs; and teachers were targeted in four programs. Six studies involved multisystemic programs, which consisted of some combination of children, parents, and teachers being the focus for intervention. The review of the 30 evaluations concluded that child sexual abuse prevention programs can lead to significant gains in children's, parents', and teachers' safety knowledge and skills. Best-practice guidelines identified from the review include the use of multisystemic programs; child-focused curricula that cover a wide range of safety skills and concepts; and the use of didactic instruction and discussion, video modeling, and active behavioral skills training techniques in program delivery. The curricula for parents' and teachers' programs should cover child protection issues and local child protection procedures, along with an overview of the children's program lesson plans. Longer programs conducted by trained staff are preferable; such staff may include teachers, parents, mental health professionals, and law enforcement officers. 2 tables and 46 references