NCJ Number
228548
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 53 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 574-595
Date Published
October 2009
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article examines a therapy model that combines family and individual therapy for children with sexual behavior problems.
Abstract
Results suggest that a critical tool in the therapeutic program for children involved in sexual assault includes family therapy combined with risk assessment, group therapy, and individual therapy for children with sexual behavior problems and for other members of the family, as well as marital therapy for parents. Important issues for therapy, including boundaries, fear, family behavior patterns, and communication channels were also discussed. Therapeutic methods differ for children versus adolescents, as well as for those who have been sexually victimized. Also discussed was the treatment of minors who have not been sexually victimized, presenting as an example, one therapeutic model currently implemented in the Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Sexual Aggression Among Children, Tel Aviv, Israel. The specifics of the model are detailed, along with topics for both individual and family therapy, and the expected outcomes from application of the model. Results for the use of this therapeutic model were evaluated by gathering data concerning recidivism and through collection of the feedback. None of the minors undergoing treatment reoffended; additionally, physical violence was either stopped or significantly reduced, and all participants reported enormous improvement in family relationships and communication patterns. References