NCJ Number
238414
Date Published
2002
Length
68 pages
Annotation
This is a training and outreach package designed to assist law enforcement officers and victim advocates in responding effectively to people with developmental disabilities who have been sexually assaulted.
Abstract
People with developmental disabilities may have impaired communication skills that make them particularly vulnerable to sexual manipulation and "grooming" that leads to sexual assault. The victimization consequences are as severe as those for sexual assault victims without disabilities. In some cases, the victimization effects are worse because victims with developmental disabilities may have difficulty understanding their feelings and thoughts about what has happened to them and how to cope with the aftermath. This training package has four objectives: to raise first-responders' awareness of the high incidence and severity of sexual assault of people with developmental disabilities; to clarify the dynamics of sexual assault of people with developmental disabilities; to give trainees information and skills that will enable them to respond appropriately to such victims; and to provide a resource kit and a community outreach kit that helps first-responders to learn and provide training in the handling of such cases. This curriculum provides material for 3.5 hours of training. The curriculum's five modules present an overview of the material, followed by training sessions that address developmental disabilities and sexual assault, first response, guidelines for effective communication, and resources for responding effectively to victim needs and the investigation of such cases. The training package includes a video, a companion discussion guide, and a CD-ROM presentation that can be used for independent study. These components may be used separately or together.