Dimensions of Child Sexual Abuse Allegations: What is Unusual and What is Not?

• NCJ Number: 244595
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Psychology Practice Volume: 13 Issue: 5 Dated: October-December 2013 Pages: 456-475
• Author(s): William O'Donohue, Ph.D.; Lorraine T. Benuto, Ph.D.; Rachel N. Fondren, M.S.; Lauren Tolle, Ph.D.; Aditi Vijay, Ph.D.; Matthew Fanetti, Ph.D.
• Date Published: November 2013
• Length: 20 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined 97 substantiated cases of child sexual abuse.

Abstract

Summit claimed via his child sexual abuse accommodation syndrome (CSAAS) that children often (a) recant; (b) make disclosures that are unconvincing (i.e., "illogical" and "incredible"); (c) make contradictory claims; and (d) make delayed claims. In this study, 97 substantiated cases of child sexual abuse were examined for both the key properties outlined by Summit and also for other key properties that have been discussed by experts. Results indicate that some of the key properties of CSASS (recantation and contradictions) are rare in substantiated cases. While delayed claims were common, the delays in this sample were generally shorter than proposed in CSAAS. Results also revealed that allegations rarely contained logistical implausibilities, impoverished details, a stake factor, strange elements in the context of the outcry, fantastical details, or reports of repressed memories. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.