NCJ Number
137623
Date Published
1991
Length
104 pages
Annotation
This approach to working with adult survivors of sexual abuse welds systemic thinking and a feminist perspective into a theoretical model of therapeutic techniques.
Abstract
The first section sets the context in which this model is placed. The author describes the work of the Cardiff Family Institute and elements of the systemic perspective. The impact of feminism on family therapy can be seen in the influence of androcratic culture, gender roles, and the interaction between feminism and systemic practice. Therapeutic guidelines are outlined in the second section. They cover the question of blame and responsibility, the relationship between victim and abuser, the relationship between victim and "protector," and the wider system of family behavior patterns. Some of the dilemmas faced by family therapists include the effectiveness of psychotherapy, issues of disclosure, and the diagnosis for adult survivors of sexual abuse. 5 notes