NCJ Number
166767
Date Published
1988
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This Camp Director's Guide provides information on preventing child sexual exploitation in the camp environment and training personnel to recognize and report camper behaviors that are signs of sexual victimization.
Abstract
The first section of the guide focuses on definitions, namely, definitions of preferential child molesters (pedophiles), child sexual abuse and exploitation, and myths about child molesters. Characteristics of preferential child molesters are discussed in the second section. Among the characteristics outlined are limited social contact as teenagers; premature separation from the military; prior arrests or convictions; lives alone or with parents; over 25, single, never married; limited dating relationships if not married; limited peer relationships; excessive interest in children; skilled at manipulating children; and seduces children with attention, affection, and gifts. The third section focuses on camp staff selection. Guidance is provided on the content of the employee application, the personal interview, and reference checks. Another section addresses camp staff training. Topics covered are the detection of child sexual abuse and exploitation, what to do if signs of abuse are detected, precautions against accusations of sexual abuse or exploitation, the reporting of child sexual abuse and exploitation, and a reporting form. A section on camp staff supervision discusses prevention and education programs at camp. Two checklists are provided: a camp director's action checklist and warning signs of child sexual abuse and exploitation. A 12- item annotated resource list