NCJ Number
105138
Date Published
1986
Length
60 pages
Annotation
This literature review focuses on state-of-the-art literature concerning the nature, extent, dynamics, and effects of child sexual abuse.
Abstract
Following a review of definitions in the literature, the scope of the problem is examined from incidence and prevalence studies. An analysis of literature on the dynamics of sexual abuse focuses on perpetrators, victims, intrafamilial sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation. Literature pertaining to the effects of child sexual abuse on children and families is examined, and a review of prevention literature addresses education for parents, prevention efforts for professionals and children, prevention projects funded by the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, and the evaluation of prevention efforts. Other topics reviewed are intervention, the legal response to child sexual abuse (legal intervention, statutes regarding sexual abuse, and legislative change), and treatment goals and methods. 226 references and 30-item selected bibliography.