This study used a qualitative methods approach to examine facilitators and barriers to the engagement of families in an evidence-based practice (EBP) for youth with problem sexual behavior (PSB) in a multistate sample.
The widespread implementation of evidence-based responses for youth with problematic sexual behavior (PSB) have strong promise for preventing child sexual abuse and keeping children safe in communities. The Success of any evidence-based program for youth is limited by the ability to actively engage families in the services. Engaging families in treatment for PSB is particularly complex due to a variety of factors at the individual (e.g., taboo topic), family (e.g., cultural factors), system (e.g., multiple agency involvement), and policy levels (e.g., payment for services limited to adjudicated youth). The results of the current study indicated that caregiver intent to aid and support youth, as well as perseverance to overcome multiple system barriers, resulted in increased engagement. Family engagement was attainable despite barriers such as stress, lack of support, frequency of youth PSB, severity of child behavioral problems, and other difficulties if overcome through caregiver motivation to provide effective treatment. Recommendations and policy implications for improving the engagement of families in treatment for youth with PSB are discussed. (publisher abstract modified)