Given the many inaccuracies in the original "New York Times" 38-witnesses version of the Kitty Genovese story, this study examined the accuracy of this story in current introductory psychology textbooks, 50 years later. Recent studies have shown that there is no evidence for the following three key features of the original story: (1)…

Highlights the potential value of free symbolic play to the field of sexual abuse. Preliminary guidelines are suggested for appropriate use to gain information about possible sexual abuse; a case study is presented illustrating application. Potential impact of research comparing the free symbolic play of sexually abused and nonabused children is…

Applies a conceptual framework drawn from Max Weber's ideas of domination to examine the ways by which domination of child victims is created and maintained in cases of institutional abuse. Suggests that a solution is to regulate institutional abuse by written guidance on procedures, by frequent inspections, and through copious recommendations…

Examines the narrative of two child abuse epidemics, one in England and one in the Netherlands. The authors examine the impact of these incidents on social work, policing, medical and pediatric practice, together with an analysis of the response of penal law and court practice. Effects of blame on the professionals involved is highlighted. (JPS)

Discusses self-disclosure as a therapeutic tool in both group and individual work with adult survivors of child sexual abuse. Identifies specific types of self-disclosing behaviors and presents case examples. Examines the importance of the therapists' own life experiences and the therapist's life outside of the professional role. (RJM)

This paper reviews factors in the professional neglect of multiple personality disorder (MPD) and sexual abuse in childhood, as well as recent diagnostic developments in childhood dissociative disorders. The identification of subtle dissociative symptomatology in children is illustrated, and two case examples are presented. (Author)

This commentary on Steven Heckler (EC 608 725) reviews qualitative and quantitative studies of facilitated communication (FC), and examines FC and sexual abuse allegations involving individuals with autism. It concludes that the mounting evidence against FC is convincing but that FC should not be eliminated as a possible augmentative communication…

This paper presents the findings of a single case study of a particular board of education's decision-making process in a crisis situation, and explores interpretation of those findings from two theoretical perspectives. The crisis resulted from the charges against and conviction of the superintendent for a sexual assault on a 17-year-old female…

In cases of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy, the perpetrator (generally the mother) simulates or fabricates child abuse in order to maintain an intense relationship with hospital personnel, police personnel, child protection workers, lawyers, or school personnel. A case involving law enforcement agents as a primary "target" illustrates…