NCJ Number
104253
Date Published
1986
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This interview with Cordelia Anderson (formerly Kent), who developed the use of the 'touch continuum' to explain sexual abuse and its prevention to children, < reviews the development of sexual abuse prevention programs for children, their content, and future directions.
Abstract
The 'touch continuum,' which was introduced to sexual abuse prevention programs in 1977, helps children become aware of 'good' or 'comfortable' touching by others and how it differs from 'bad' or 'uncomfortable' touching. The continuum does not make absolute pronouncements about 'good' and 'bad' touch but rather teaches children to be aware of how other people, particularly adults, are touching them; encourages them to resist touching that makes them uncomfortable; reinforces their right of control over how others touch their bodies; and advises them to consult parents and adults about touch that is confusing or uncomfortable for them. The program pioneered by Mrs. Anderson uses explicit language in describing the touching of children's genitalia so as to make children comfortable in discussing these parts of their bodies. This has met some resistance among school administrators. Future programs in child sexual abuse prevention must cultivate healthy broad concepts of sexuality among children, particularly distinguishing healthy sexual relations from violent and exploitive behavior.