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)

This meta-analysis found significant relationships between the experience of child sexual abuse and subsequent difficulties in psychological adjustment as measured by psychological symptomatology, depression, and self-esteem. Significant heterogeneity occurred across studies using different subject populations. Student samples consistently…

Examines the effects of rap music on the attitudes and behaviors of students in historically black colleges. Interviews with 38 females indicate that they find explicit lyrics inappropriate and harmful to society, but they feel that rap music accurately represents some of the realities of gender relations between black males and females. (SLD)

Examined influence of assault and participant characteristics on medical students' attitudes toward rape and nonsexual-assault victims. First- and third-year students read narratives of three types of assault patients. Female students revealed more favorable attitudes toward victims than did males. Implications for service delivery to rape victims…

The sexual victimization experiences of 677 college women were correlated with child and adolescent victimization, family and psychological adjustment, alcohol use, interpersonal functioning, and sexual behavior. Analyses indicated that the chances of being victimized increased with greater severity of previous victimization. (SLD)

Describes a pilot group developed to address the traumagenic stigmatization, powerlessness, betrayal, and sexualization that characterize victims of sexual abuse. Treatment modules developed within this framework focused on: group cohesiveness, discussion of specific abuse experiences, coping strategies, sexuality, victimization prevention, and…

This study assessed perceptions of child abuse by 133 Indian nationals representing either social workers, other human service professionals, or the general public. There were few variations in perceptions of the severity of different forms of abuse among groups. Cross-cultural comparison with a U.S. study indicated substantial differences. (DB)

Psychosocial, psychosomatic, and psychodynamic factors were evaluated in 33 female psychiatric patients who had been victims of incest. Sexual abuse experiences in childhood were related to feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and powerlessness, which, with a lack of support from the mother, led to ego weakness, and an autoplastic model of coping…

A follow-up study examined two programs intended to prevent child sexual abuse: (1) Protective Behaviors (Australia), which develops assertiveness skills to empower children; and (2) Keeping Ourselves Safe (New Zealand), which uses "What if..." problem-solving exercises. Revealed the importance of providing a school-based program that is…

Offers guidelines for use in questioning children about incidents of sexual abuse. Guidelines concern children's cognitive capabilities, social and emotional responses, and language abilities. Includes the story of a 4.5-year-old girl who was questioned in court. (BB)

Discusses school counselor's role in working with students who may have been sexually abused. Defines sexual abuse, provides an overview of child sexual abuse, and identifies both counselor role as consultant to teachers and his/her role with parents. Describes preventive programs within the schools. Lists 19 behavioral indicators of sexual abuse…

A study evaluated the emotional and behavioral adjustment of 92 parents and 56 children within three months and one year after the discovery of extrafamilial sexual abuse. Parents and children experienced clinically significant effects, both initially and at 12 months' post-disclosure. Children's self-blame and extent of traumatization predicted…

This study compared the effectiveness of both individual/dyadic/family therapy (IDF) and group therapy with 41 children (aged 6-17 years) who had been abused sexually. Globally, children in the IDF group showed improvement in their psychological state. Children in group therapy demonstrated deterioration in some aspects of their mental health, but…

Describes the design and evaluates effectiveness of a program at a private college to change freshman (n=615) attitudes about date rape and sexual assault. Intervention for the experimental group involved viewing a play performed by students; the control group viewed an alternative play addressing multicultural issues. Results indicated improved…

Although educators play a critical role in identifying and preventing child sexual abuse; many lack confidence in their knowledge and ability to provide appropriate intervention services. This article provides background and practical information for teachers, examines barriers to success, and presents a model program designed to develop teachers'…