NCJ Number
135834
Journal
Child Welfare Volume: 71 Issue: 2 Dated: (March/April 1992) Pages: 131-145
Date Published
1992
Length
15 pages
Annotation
When a staff member of a residential program for children is accused of sexually abusing a child in the program, the administration must manage the situation in a way that balances the necessity of protecting the child, supporting the staff, and maintaining the integrity and reputation of the agency.
Abstract
The first and paramount concern is protecting the child victim and the other children. Steps must be taken to support the child emotionally and to protect the child from possible attempts at retribution by staff members or peers. It is crucial to believe that child sexual abuse can happen in any institution and that the risk has some degree of randomness. In addition, the administration should allow the abuser to tell the story, treat the alleged abuser with respect and dignity, and explain the employee's suspension as meeting the agency's primary duty to assure the child's safety. The worker's wage and benefit status should be maintained until the employee may have to be discharged. Furthermore, responding directly and unambiguously in the best interests of the alleged child victim is vital to maintaining the agency's treatment integrity and reputation. One clearly visible, accessible senior manager should be in charge of managing the process. The agency should also be prepared for legal action and extensive media publicity. 7 references