NCJ Number
126506
Journal
Issues in Child Abuse Accusations Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (1990) Pages: 109-115
Date Published
1990
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a model program of self-help groups for persons falsely accused of child abuse. It is designed to assist in coping with the stress and trauma of the situation and can be used by churches, citizens groups, international victim groups, victim service agencies, mental health agencies, family and children's services agencies, and professionals in private practice.
Abstract
It explains the damaging effects of erroneous charges on the victims and their families covering common responses to false arrests, the investigation and the possible conviction. Reactions to a false accusation are divided into three stages: shock and disbelief, frozen fright, or pseudocalm and emotional exhaustion. Suggestions are presented for those who want to start a group for the erroneously charged or convicted and a group meeting scheme for lay persons is presented. 86 references and 14 suggested readings (Author abstract modified)