NCJ Number
109848
Date Published
1985
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This booklet is intended to help readers better understand child sexual abuse and incest and steps in preventing and responding to it.
Abstract
Following a definition of child sexual abuse and a review of its prevalence in America, the booklet profiles sexual abusers of children under the categories of the immature offender, the regressed offender, and the aggressive offender. After defining incest, the characteristics of incestuous families and their members are profiled. A listing of the signs and symptoms of child sexual abuse covers the victim's physical symptoms and behavioral signs by age group (preschoolers, school-age children, and adolescents). The psychological effects of sexual abuse on the child victim are reviewed. Among the suggestions for preventing child sexual abuse and incest are to teach children the difference between 'good' touching and 'bad' touching by others, how to handle encounters with strangers, and where to go for safety on routes frequently used by the children. Parents can aid prevention through the careful selection of those who care for their children and by encouraging their children to talk about any experiences that frighten them or make them feel uncomfortable. Suggestions are also offered for what an adult should do if sexual abuse or incest is suspected. The booklet concludes with a description of what happens after sexual abuse or incest has been reported. A list of national organizations to contact for more information and 7 recommended readings.