NCJ Number
119577
Date Published
1988
Length
66 pages
Annotation
The experience of child sexual abuse and the process of coming to terms with it in daily life are considered.
Abstract
The goal of the book is to examine the issue of child sexual abuse from the victim/survivor perspective. The authors point out that most known abusers of both boys and girls are men and that the cycle of abuse will not end until society understands the effects of child sexual abuse on adult and juvenile sex offenders. The authors share the perception that the effects of child sexual abuse on men and women are similar, although these effects may be expressed differently due to gender-based socialization. The first part of the book focuses on victim characteristics and defines concepts of molestation, incest, and sexual abuse. The book then notes coping mechanisms to deal with the trauma of abuse and the importance of communicating reactions and feelings. Finally, the role of therapy in helping abuse victims deal with the pain inflicted by family members and loved ones is discussed, along with mental health, social service, and legal systems that survivors of child sexual abuse often come in contact with or utilize. Appendixes include a bibliography, a list of national resources to help victims of abuse, and guidelines for choosing a therapist.