NCJ Number
150756
Date Published
Unknown
Length
134 pages
Annotation
This manual is intended as an orientation to issues associated with the treatment of sexually abused, physically abused, and neglected children.
Abstract
It is for therapists interested in acquiring more information on treatment related to child maltreatment; professionals who may not be involved in therapy with abused children, but who desire a greater understanding of therapeutic issues and processes; and therapists who provide services to maltreated children and wish to improve their skills, knowledge, and therapeutic abilities. The manual first presents an overview of child development, followed by a description of the relatively new field of developmental psychopathology that "refers to the study of clinical dysfunction in the context of maturational and developmental processes." Under the concepts of developmental psychopathology, the therapist is responsible for understanding the various contexts in which the abused child-client exists; assessing clients within their environments and identifying dysfunctional behaviors, emotions, and cognitions; and providing interventions that address identified problems and assist adaptation and a return to healthy functioning. In most cases, the manual's framework consists of classifications of child development into intrapersonal development (developmental processes within the child); interpersonal development (developmental processes between the child and others in his/her life); physical development (physical, body, and motor development); sexual development (development of sexual behavior, thoughts, and feelings); and behavioral conduct development (management of behavior, self-control, and regulation). A section on case management focuses on family members, school personnel, child welfare agencies, and juvenile court. 223 notes, glossary, a 27-item bibliography, and a list of organizational resources