Cross, Fine, Jones, and Walsh (2012) provided a thoughtful review and critique of a book chapter describing the interview process at Child Advocacy Centers. They observed some of the ways that concerns raised in that chapter are being addressed and described revised guidelines that further clarify issues. Ongoing research and examination of the…

Responds to a commentary regarding recovered memories of sexual abuse. Claims that the nature of recovered memory makes it extremely difficult to devise meaningful studies that address these concerns. Examines the client base, the personal history of child abuse, the professionalism of the therapist, and the content of client memories. (RJM)

Responds to Spiegel's article on child abuse by asserting that few elementary school counselors possess sufficient education and understanding regarding child abuse hysteria syndrome and by supporting need for further research in clarification of present knowledge base. Encourages counselors to approach complicated abuse situations with…

Asserts that, in addition to reporting and responding to child abuse, counselors must initiate education programs about abuse. Lists 12 ideas for counselors and school personnel to implement. The American School Counselor Association position paper on the school counselor and child abuse/neglect prevention, child abuse or neglect form, and list of…

Sees it as essential that school counselors have understanding of roles they must play when they suspect child abuse. Asserts that counselors can help make turmoil that follows a report more bearable if they understand their roles. Considers roles of informant, counselor to the victim or perpetrator, employee, liaison with others, court witness,…

Presents questions and answers from a written interview with a researcher and practitioner of law relating to children's issues who responded to questions concerning child abuse issues for school counselors. Includes discussions of legal responsibility for reporting suspected abuse, documentation of interventions, privileged communication…

Notes that marital and family therapists working with families when child sexual abuse is disclosed or suspected face ethical confusion that may not be clearly addressed by professional codes of conduct or legal statutes. Discusses ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in family sexual abuse cases and provides recommendations for ethical decision…

Responds to Spiegel's article cautioning elementary school counselors to be well-informed and avoid public hysteria surrounding child abuse by discussing the issues of unfounded versus false reports; backlash literature; a question of innocence; and the need for better education and training for child protective workers and those involved with…

Responds to Spiegel's article on child abuse by asserting that elementary school counselors need to be aware and knowledgeable of issues surrounding child abuse and to have commitment to reporting any and all cases of suspected child abuse. Considers responsibility for accurately reporting cases of child abuse to be shared by all of society. (NB)

Presents American School Counselors Association's (ASCA) position on the school counselor and child abuse prevention and recognizes the absolute responsibility of school counselors to report suspected cases of child abuse/neglect to authorities. Discusses definitions of terms, ASCA endorsements, and the counselor's role. (NB)

Dr. Deanna Pledge is a licensed psychologist and professional counselor. She has worked in public and private settings for over a decade. She has been working with teens, children, and adults around abuse issues for the past ten years, and has written "When Something Feels Wrong: A Survival Guide About Abuse." In this interview she answers a…

Specific ethical problems caused by the multiple roles of the psychologist in cases involving child protection are discussed. Psychologists may serve as consultants, evaluators, therapists, reporters, or monitors for the client and/or the court. When more than one person in the family is involved, or the court orders an additional role for the…

Notes that many factors may contribute to lack of disclosure of childhood sexual abuse. Contends that elementary school counselors must assist children in disclosure of their abuse. Sees drawing as one method counselors can use to assist children in communicating their inner feelings and experiences. Helps counselors become familiar with drawing…

Explains five functions a school can serve in a child abuse and child neglect cases. Notes other sources of help for abused children not yet of school age, such as play groups, family shelters, and crisis nurseries. Explains the flaws in various past methods of treating child abuse. (SB)

Studies have traced a possible link between patterns of family interaction, faulty socialization, child abuse, and delinquent behavior. Counselors can respond to the needs of society to reduce violence by their access to the research on human development and in their work with families and children. Some types of discipline and parental attitudes…