NCJ Number
247596
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 23 Issue: 3 Dated: 2014 Pages: 278-289
Date Published
2014
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Potential human immunodeficiency virus transmission makes prompt disclosure of child sexual abuse in Africa critical.
Abstract
Potential human immunodeficiency virus transmission makes prompt disclosure of child sexual abuse in Africa critical. The pattern of disclosure of 133 children presenting to the largest hospital in Malawi were analyzed. Eighty percent presented early enough for effective use of HIV postexposure prophylaxis. Seventy-five percent of children made a disclosure of child sexual abuse; 29% spontaneously and 47% after prompting. Disclosures were most commonly made to a parent, and age did not affect the pattern of disclosure. The number of children reporting child sexual abuse is increasing, possibly because of increasing awareness, availability of services, and fear of HIV. Although prompt disclosure rates were relatively high, facilitating easier disclosure of child sexual abuse by a free telephone help-line and better training of teachers may be helpful. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor Francis.