Sexual abuse of young children

Treating sexually abused children is never easy, but dealing with the youngest victims- children of pre-school age- presents special problems. The clinician must know how to communicate with these children, and how to overcome their fear of divulging a terrible secret. They also must confront the powerful emotions evoked by sexual abuse. Combining theory, research, and practice, the authors have compiled the first authoritative volume to focus on very young molested children. This book gives the practitioner the understanding and technical tools to evaluate and treat young victims of abuse. It describes how to win the trust of frightened children; how to pose questions that will evoke the most information; and how to use puppets, dolls, and art materials. It assess a variety of treatment modalities, including individual play therapy, structured group treatment, and work with parents. Because sexually abused children are frequently called upon to testify against alleged molesters, the book also examines the legal and ethical issues of recording testimony. Among the topics covered are: consideration of the child's developmental stage; how to assess suspected child abuse; techniques for interviewing and gathering evidence; allegations of sexual abuse in divorce proceedings; family dynamics of incest with young children; and helping parents cope with extrafamilial molestation. The authors are among the pioneers in this field. Combining theoretical sophistication with the wisdom born of vast experience, their clear coverage of this most sensitive issue provides an invaluable tool for any professional who comes in contact with preschool molested children and their families. -- from Book Jacket.