Addresses some of the social and legal barriers to successful prosecution of child sexual abuse cases, and to the child's effective participation in such cases. Discusses steps that can be taken to reduce, eliminate, or overcome those barriers. (Author/KH)

Reviews research demonstrating the variable effects of childhood sexual abuse, need for intervention, and effectiveness of available treatment. Proposes extending and modifying treatment from mainstream clinical child psychology to sexually abused children. Interventions range from psychoeducation and screening, to short-term, abuse-focused…

Analysis of interviews with 23 child victims (aged 10-18 years) of childhood sexual abuse suggested that the victimization process involves 3 overlapping processes: sexualization of the relationship, justification of the sexual contact, and maintenance of the child's cooperation. (DB)

Eighty-two child victims of sexual abuse and their families were interviewed about their experiences with disclosure and intervention an average of 3.5 years later. Children reported primarily favorable experiences. Factors associated with increased distress included more contact with intervention professionals, having a medical exam, and…

Current approaches for evaluating children for possible sexual abuse are critically analyzed for conceptual integrity and empirical support. Suggestions for future development include the use of indicators of abuse that allow for professional judgment, consideration of the influence of questioning style, and use of peer review. (JDD)

This commentary addresses implications of mothers' delayed posttraumatic stress disorder following the disclosure of sexual abuse of their children. These mothers, who themselves were sexually abused as children, may have significant psychopathology that may complicate their response to their children's psychological needs. (SW)