NCJ Number
206989
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Dated: 2004 Pages: 99-120
Editor(s)
Robert Geffner Ph.D.
Date Published
2004
Length
22 pages
Annotation
Findings are presented from a study exploring the costs and benefits associated with high-level involvement in issues related to child sexual abuse.
Abstract
High-level involvement in controversies related to child sexual abuse appears to have considerable impact on those involved. In this paper, the costs and benefits associated with high-level involvement on issues related to child sexual abuse is examined. In order to explain why high-level commitment on issues related to child sexual abuse may exist, this study draws upon interview data, psychological theories about stress and coping and sociological theories about social movement participation. Forty interview subjects were selected and were likely to be recognized as important participants in contemporary child sexual abuse conflicts. They represented a number of different viewpoints and disciplines, as well as being identified as belonging to 1 of 2 major camps of opinion around issues related to child sexual abuse, believers (n = 21) and skeptics (n = 19). Twenty-one of the 40 subjects reported that they had experienced both costs and benefits as a result of their involvement in issues related to child sexual abuse, 6 only reported benefits, 10 reported only costs, and three reported on significant impact. Costs were identified and described in three major areas: attacks and misrepresentations; harm to health or emotional well-being; and career losses or changes. Benefits were also identified and described in three areas: personal growth resulting from intellectual stimulation and rewarding relationships; a sense of personal satisfaction in being able to make a difference; and career enhancement. Women were found to have experienced more impacts overall than men. References