NCJ Number
113431
Journal
Home Office Research and Planning Unit Research Bulletin Issue: 23 Dated: (1987) Pages: 34-37
Date Published
1987
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Major findings concerning the nature and incidence of child sexual abuse (CSA) in the United States are reviewed.
Abstract
Because of differences in definitions of CSA and methodology, the prevalence of CSA is difficult to determine, but most studies agree that it is significantly higher than indicated by official statistics. Rates of 6 to 62 percent have been found for females and of 3 to 38 percent for males. In one study, only half the women experiencing some form of CSA had told someone about the incident at the time it occurred. The most usual confidant was the victim's mother; police were informed in only 17 percent of the cases. Although victim-offender relationship varies by type of sexual offense, research suggests that 60 to 70 percent of child molesters are known to the victims; roughly a third are relatives. Girls between the ages of 8 and 12 are the most frequent victims of CSA. Some studies have suggested that CSA is more likely to be found in anomalous family situations involving marital conflict. Offenders are usually males who have committed their offense before age 40. Preventive measures may include child and parent education and offender treatment. Because of high recidivism rates, the effectiveness of offender treatment has not been established. Studies related to child witnesses are also examined. 12 references.