NCJ Number
112878
Date Published
1988
Length
432 pages
Annotation
This text provides an overview of mental health, social services, medical, and legal issues in a child sexual abuse (CSA).
Abstract
Following a review on past and current social responses to CSA, the definition, incidence, consequences, and factors affecting CSA are discussed. Theories of incest and the families in which it occurs also are delineated. Issues in identifying CSA victims are examined, including signs and symptoms in children and adults, the evaluation of accusations, and procedures for assessing the truthfulness of the alleged child victim. Treatment issues are discussed, including countertransference in therapy with victims and perpetrators, benefits and limitations of legal coercion for treatment, and interagency cooperation. Procedures used in crisis intervention, individual and group treatment, and family therapy are outlined. The development, implementation, and evaluation of prevention programs for children, parents, and professionals also are discussed. Also addressed are legal issues in CSA, including child victim/witness competency, the use of expert testimony, and procedural courtroom reforms are presented, including the effects on victims' and defendants' rights of such innovations as the use of hearsay testimony, videotaped testimony, and shielding the defendant from the victim during trial. Directions for future research and intervention also are offered. Subject and name indexes and approximately 400 references.