The debate over sexual violence on campus is reaching fever pitch, from headlines about out--of-control fraternities, to the "mattress protests" by female students at Columbia University and other colleges. "The Hunting Ground," the new documentary by award-winning filmmakers Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering, has taken this debate to…

This article describes the state of knowledge about extended assessments/forensic evaluations in situations of possible sexual abuse. It provides a critical review of the modest body of relevant research, describes two models for extended assessments, and presents descriptive survey findings of 62 professionals conducting extended assessments,…

This paper provides a broad overview of legal and social service responses to child sexual abuse, the overarching legal framework provided by federal legislation, and funding mandates and the unique and shared investigative concerns of law enforcement and child protective service entities. Relevant psychological research is highlighted throughout,…

It was only 30 years ago that the medical community began to develop an increased awareness of child sexual abuse, and the role of the medical provider in the evaluation of sexually abused children has evolved significantly. As clinicians worldwide develop a greater understanding of the impact of the sexual abuse evaluation on the child, the roles…

The Country Walk case in Dade County, Florida was long considered a model for how to prosecute a multi-victim child sexual abuse case involving young children. In the past 10 years, however, a contrary view has emerged that the case was tainted by improper interviewing and was likely a false conviction. This is the first scholarly effort to assess…

The study interviewed 20 adult sexual offenders in treatment about the process whereby they selected, recruited, and maintained children in a sexual abuse situation. Implications for prevention of sexual abuse are highlighted. (Author/DB)

In Australia, there is a growing expectation that sexuality education should reduce the risks associated with youth sex by providing young people with information on protecting their sexual health. However, this information may be insufficient to ensure that young people make choices that support their sexual safety and autonomy. This paper…

Defines some general principles in conducting a social work interview with young children who are thought to have been sexually abused. Suggests that the most effective interviewing tools are anatomically correct dolls. Presents two case examples of interviewers using the dolls. (Author/ABB)

Describes the process for reporting and investigating child sexual abuse cases. Reporting mandates are discussed, as are several concerns and criticisms about how these mandates are implemented. Additionally discussed are key issues related to the investigation of claims. Specific controversies, such as those concerning the use of videotaping,…

Reports on case studies on children's stress regarding genital examinations. Ways to reduce stress include preparing the child, giving the child increased control, and debriefing the child and parents after the examination. (LB)

A child abuse assessment center was created in Dade County, Florida, and was funded by state and local government sources. Staff includes a project director, two clinical social workers, a follow-up case monitor, clerical support, and a psychologist. The center attempts to minimize trauma to the child victim of sexual and physical abuse by a…

Examines the experience of four female therapists working with male sex offenders on an outpatient basis, and the variety of difficulties that they faced in maintaining care of the perpetrators. Four general themes emerged: developing a positive view of perpetrators, managing client beliefs and behaviors, controlling personal reactivity, and the…

Educators' roles in identification of abused/neglected children, subsequent reporting, and techniques for interviewing suspected abused children are discussed. Educators' expanded role in abuse prevention, involving such activities as offering courses in parenting, child safety/protection, and human sexuality, is examined, followed by a…

Presents a brief history of the medical profession's attention to child sexual abuse; describes the physician's role as reporter and evaluator of medical evidence; and suggests areas where practice may be improved or research is needed. It explains why more detailed guidelines and protocols are needed for medical personnel involved in sexual abuse…

This publication presents papers from a 1982 child sexual abuse conference sponsored by the Colorado State Department of Social Services, designed to identify major issues and trends and to stimulate the exchange of perspectives and practices among persons concerned about preventing and treating child sexual abuse. The first section of the…