NCJ Number
160985
Journal
School Safety Update Dated: (December 1993) Pages: 1-4
Date Published
1993
Length
4 pages
Annotation
School systems should address the problem of child sexual abuse from a multifaceted perspective that involves students, parents, staff, and the community in protecting the children.
Abstract
School systems have both legal and ethical responsibilities for addressing the problem proactively on a variety of levels, because 1 of 4 females and 1 of 6 males will be molested before their 18th birthday. Keeping molesters away from children requires effective record screening and selection of school personnel. Keeping children away from molesters requires the training of children to avoid individuals who make inappropriate overtures toward them. School system efforts should also address the four enabling factors that contribute to sexual assault: (1) offender motivation to commit the abuse, (2) disinhibiting factors that limit the offender's impulse control, (3) an environment that allows the abuse to occur, and (4) the availability of victims. Several strategies are available to address each of these factors. In addition, a survey of 105 convicted sex offenders suggests specific approaches that schools can use to prevent child sexual abuse. Lists of signs and symptoms of child sexual abuse and organizations from which to obtain further information