NCJ Number
109624
Journal
Volta Review Volume: 89 Issue: 5 Dated: (September 1987) Pages: 78-95
Date Published
1987
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses disabled children's particular vulnerability to sexual exploitation and physical abuse and suggests the roles of schools and parents in preventing such abuse.
Abstract
Although an abused child may be of any age, background, or gender, disabled children are particularly vulnerable to abuse. The disability introduces additional stress factors into relationships with adult caretakers. Also, abusers may think it safer to victimize a disabled child. Disabled children are often uninformed about abuse prevention measures, and they are often dependent on their abusers for affection and care. Disabled children may be incapable of disclosing their abuse even when they know it is wrong. This paper outlines the signs of physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional maltreatment. Parents can help prevent sexual abuse by insisting on a protection curriculum in their school systems. As child abuse prevention programs become available for disabled children, they will be better prepared to avoid and report actual or attempted sexual abuse. Any school prevention program should include information for parents to help them reinforce skills the child has learned in school. Other ways parents can assist in prevention are to become informed about the indicators of abuse and report incidents or suspected incidents of abuse involving their own and other children. 114-item bibliography and list of organizations to contact for help.