NCJ Number
135875
Date Published
1987
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This booklet provides information about child molesters and the prevention of child sexual abuse.
Abstract
It explains what constitutes child sexual abuse, and why it happens. It emphasizes that the decision to abuse a child sexually is made solely by the offender. This wrong decision can be attributed to thinking errors, emotions, and changes in the sexual system of the molester. The cycle of sexual abuse consists of a depressional low self-image; increasing temptations; weak self-control; sexual contact with a child; guilt; false promises; and a return to the low self-image part of the cycle. In order to deal with this problem, the offender needs help to avoid further complications before steps for stopping the abuse can be recommended. Further readings and resources on the subject are listed.