NCJ Number
127053
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 5 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1990) Pages: 474-487
Date Published
1990
Length
14 pages
Annotation
Thirty-nine children aged 4 to 17 from 5 cases of ritualistic child abuse that occurred in 5 separate neighborhood settings described in clinical interview at least 6 elements of ritual abuse.
Abstract
Three distinct components to the abuse were identified and found to interact with one another: incest, neighborhood juvenile perpetration, and organized adult ritual sex rings. Among juvenile perpetrators were many who were considered conscientious; religious leaders and women were also involved. Lack of understanding led to oversimplification of the problem, inaccurate investigative work, and attempts to discredit victims and therapists. The majority of children showed little symptomology at first, but made significant increases during the disclosure process. Ritual abuse in neighborhood settings appears secretive, coercive, and complex. Table, figure, and 14 references (Author abstract modified)