NCJ Number
94796
Date Published
Unknown
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Information on sexual abuse intended primarily for adolescents covers the nature and frequency of sexual assault, steps in prevention and defense, and what to do in the event of sexual abuse.
Abstract
Florida law defines the crime as 'involuntary sexual battery.' In fact, the child-victim is seldom violently attacked. The offender is usually between ages 15 and 30. About 80 percent of the time, the child-victim knows the offender. Precautions to avoid sexual assault include dating in groups, observing certain safety habits at home, and relying upon baby sitters. There are five basic tactics to use in the event of a sexual assault: diverting noises, running, stalling, talking calmly, and fighting. Therapeutic assistance can be received from school counselors or teachers, victims advocates programs, county health department personnel, and single intake facilities. Florida police officers assigned to rape cases have received sensitivity training that emphasizes the use of appropriate questioning techniques for rape investigations.