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Côté É, Cyr M, Brillon P, Dion J, Daignault IV, Gendron A. Facility dogs during police investigative interviews: Does it decrease children's reluctance? CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 154:106949. [PMID: 39053220 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using facility dogs during police investigative interviews is a recent practice in Canada. While the common use of this intervention is decidedly an indicator of sympathy capital, its utility in this context is relatively unknown and no study has specifically evaluated the effect of using facility dogs on children's collaboration during investigative interviews. OBJECTIVE This study compares police investigative interviews conducted in the presence of a service dog (n = 46) to those without (n = 45) to examine the effects of the presence of and interactions with a dog on children's reluctance. PARTICIPANTS, SETTING AND METHODS The interviews were done with children aged 3 to 15 years and were coded for children's reluctance, their physical interactions with and comments about the dog, as well as for investigator's verbal support. RESULTS No significant group differences were found in terms of children's overall reluctance (p = 0.700), though the children accompanied by a dog showed significantly more digression (p = 0.008). Among the children who were accompanied by a dog, those who interacted with the dog more frequently (p = 0.035) and who made more comments about the dog (p < 0.001) showed more signs of reluctance, even after accounting for child age and investigator support. No association was observed between children's reluctance and the total duration of dog-child physical interactions (p = 0.097). CONCLUSIONS This study contributes to an enhanced understanding of the usefulness of facility dogs and the factors that influence children's reluctance during investigative interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Élie Côté
- Département de psychologie, Université de Montréal, Canada.
| | - Mireille Cyr
- Département de psychologie, Université de Montréal, Canada.
| | - Pascale Brillon
- Laboratoire de recherche Trauma et Résilience, Université du Québec à Montréal, Canada.
| | - Jacinthe Dion
- Département de psychologie, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Canada.
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Miller QC, Widom CS. Factors influencing adult cognitive appraisals of childhood sexual abuse. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 154:106909. [PMID: 38925010 PMCID: PMC11316646 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adult appraisals of their childhood sexual experiences as abusive are associated with increased risk for long-term psychological problems. Factors that underlie whether adults appraise their childhood sexual experiences as abusive remain unknown. OBJECTIVE To determine factors associated with adult cognitive appraisals of childhood sexual abuse. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Participants were 1196 adults ages 19-41 (M = 29.23, SD = 3.84) with documented cases of childhood maltreatment (sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect) during the years 1967-1971 and demographically matched controls who were followed-up and interviewed in adulthood. METHODS Using a prospective cohort design, participants were asked to recall whether they had any sexual experiences in childhood, and if so, the frequency of abuse, age at the onset of abuse, relationship to perpetrator, and whether they appraised the experiences as sexually abusive. RESULTS Over half of the sample (52%) reported childhood sexual experiences, yet only 44% considered those experiences sexually abusive. Participants with documented cases of child sexual abuse and neglect were more likely to appraise their childhood sexual experiences as abusive compared to controls. Participants who reported more severe abuse, more frequent abuse, younger age at the onset of abuse, and intrafamilial and both intra- and extrafamilial abuse (vs. extrafamilial abuse) were more likely to consider their experiences abusive. Compared to males and Black participants, females and White participants were more likely to appraise their experiences as abusive. CONCLUSIONS Understanding factors that determine adult cognitive appraisals of childhood sexual experiences as abusive can inform clinical interventions for maltreated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincy C Miller
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, 524 West 59(th) Street, New York, NY 10019, United States of America.
| | - Cathy Spatz Widom
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, 524 West 59(th) Street, New York, NY 10019, United States of America; Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States of America.
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Hietamäki J, Husso M, Arponen T, Lahtinen HM. Differences Between Girls and Boys in the Disclosure of Sexual Violence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:2629-2654. [PMID: 38254297 PMCID: PMC11071602 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231221283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
This article addresses the differences between girls and boys in the disclosure of sexual violence. The dataset combines data from the Finnish Child Victim Survey (FCVS) of 2008 (N = 13,459) and 2013 (N = 11,364), focusing on victims of sexual violence, ages 11 to 17 years, from the perspectives of disclosure and gender. Frequency and percentage analysis, cross tabulation, and a Chi-square test were used in the analysis. In the FCVS for both years, around 85% of the victims were girls. In almost two-thirds of the cases, the offender was a relative, friend, or some other known person, while in more than one-third of the cases, the offender was unknown to the victim. The second most common case was that the victim knew the offender, who was not, however, a friend. Sexual violence was found to be, in many ways, gendered. Most of the victims were girls, and most of the offenders were men. There was also a gender difference in the disclosure of experiences. Twenty-one percent of the girls and 45% of the boys reported that they had not told anyone about their experiences. Irrespective of the type of offender, the victims most often (63%) told a peer about their experiences, while 23% told parents, and only 10% told authorities. Moreover, victims reported shame and fear, distrust toward adults, and disbelief that disclosure would be helpful as reasons for not disclosing their experiences. To address this problem, raising awareness of the phenomenon, promoting an atmosphere that supports disclosing experiences of sexual violence, and improving readiness to address them are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Hietamäki
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marita Husso
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Finland
| | - Tiia Arponen
- City of Lappeenranta, Lappeenranta, Finland
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna-Mari Lahtinen
- School of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu, Finland
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Johnson HM, Block SD, Gonzales JE, Ramsey MG, Shockley KL, Williams LM. Predictors of non-offending caregiver support in cases of child sexual abuse. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 149:106650. [PMID: 38281406 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In cases of child sexual abuse (CSA), a supportive non-offending caregiver (NOC) is important for the child's overall well-being and adjustment. NOC support is also predictive of CSA cases moving forward to prosecution. Limited research has studied CSA case factors in relation to NOC supportive behaviors across numerous support dimensions. OBJECTIVE We investigated what case details predicted four different dimensions of caregiver support. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTINGS In this secondary analysis, a sample of 500 CSA cases from four prosecutors' offices in one New England state from 2009 to 2013 were randomly selected and reviewed. METHOD This study used regression analysis to test 13 case characteristics (e.g., disclosure of abuse, NOC's relationship to perpetrator) as predictors of NOC support dimensions: belief of victim, support of prosecution, protection of victim, and whether a child protective services neglect report was filed against the caregiver. RESULTS When the perpetrator was their romantic partner, the NOC was less likely to protect and believe the child victim, yet more likely to support prosecution. NOCs were more likely to demonstrate belief when the child disclosed to them first. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal the importance of the key case factors that are predictive of NOC support. This is the first study to examine these many case factors in relation to these four dimensions of support. Knowledge of these predictors can play an important role in better understanding the complexity of NOC support predictors and facilitating interventions designed to enhance such support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Johnson
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 850 Broadway St., Lowell, MA 01854, USA.
| | - Stephanie D Block
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 850 Broadway St., Lowell, MA 01854, USA.
| | - Joseph E Gonzales
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 850 Broadway St., Lowell, MA 01854, USA.
| | - Michaela G Ramsey
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 850 Broadway St., Lowell, MA 01854, USA.
| | - Kristy L Shockley
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 850 Broadway St., Lowell, MA 01854, USA.
| | - Linda M Williams
- Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College, 106 Central St., Wellesley, MA 02481-8203, USA.
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Hemanth P, Fang L, Chong S, Tan LJ. Factors related to delayed disclosure among victims of child sexual abuse in Singapore. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 149:106647. [PMID: 38281408 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delayed disclosure is a prevalent and serious issue among victims of child sexual abuse (CSA). Identifying the factors associated with delayed disclosure can identify the profile of children who are at risk of delaying disclosures and inform measures to facilitate timely disclosure. OBJECTIVE The current study represented a pioneering effort to investigate factors that are related to disclosure of CSA in Singapore. It examined the influence of various victim and abuse characteristics on the time taken for a victim to disclose CSA. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A total of 252 CSA cases that were referred to the psychology department of Singapore's Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) from 2017 to 2021 were analyzed. METHODS Cases were coded for the study variables and multivariate Cox regression was conducted to analyze the impact of each variable of interest on the time taken to disclose the abuse. RESULTS It was found that the following sub-populations of CSA victims were associated with delayed disclosure: younger victims, female victims (as compared to male victims), victims with higher severity of sexual abuse (e.g., forced intercourse), and victims who were abused by in-home caregivers (as compared to acquaintances). CONCLUSIONS The findings from the study generated practical implications to help reduce the time victims take to disclose CSA in the Singaporean context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Hemanth
- Clinical and Forensic Psychology Service, Ministry of Social and Family Development, Singapore.
| | - Lue Fang
- Clinical and Forensic Psychology Service, Ministry of Social and Family Development, Singapore
| | - Sophie Chong
- Clinical and Forensic Psychology Service, Ministry of Social and Family Development, Singapore
| | - Li Jen Tan
- Clinical and Forensic Psychology Service, Ministry of Social and Family Development, Singapore
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Allard-Gaudreau N, Poirier S, Cyr M. Factors associated with delayed disclosure of child sexual abuse: A focus on the victim's having been led to perform sexual acts on the perpetrator. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 147:106537. [PMID: 37956501 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contextual variables associated with children's willingness to disclose sexual abuse have been identified in previous studies, but further investigation is needed to better understand delayed disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA). OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine the factors associated with the risk of delayed disclosure of CSA. More specifically, it focused on a factor that has rarely, if ever, been looked into: the fact that some victims are led to perform sexual acts on the perpetrator. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A content analysis was performed on 68 transcripts of investigative interviews with CSA victims aged 4 to 12 years old. METHODS Based on our content analysis, the time between the first abuse and the first disclosure was determined for each victim. The age and gender of the victim, the victim's relationship with the perpetrator, the age of the perpetrator, the frequency and severity of the abuse, and whether or not the victim mentioned having performed sexual acts on the perpetrator were also coded. RESULTS Chi-square analyses showed that the risk of delayed disclosure was associated with the victim's having performed, or not performed, sexual acts on the perpetrator (χ2 = 16.327, p < 0.001), the victim's relationship with the perpetrator (χ2 = 10.013, p = 0.002), and the frequency of the abuse (χ2 = 11.617, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our study is the first to demonstrate that having been led to sexually touch the perpetrator is associated with delayed disclosure of CSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Allard-Gaudreau
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscaminque, 445 Bd de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda J9X 5E4, Québec, Canada.
| | - Sebastien Poirier
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscaminque, 445 Bd de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda J9X 5E4, Québec, Canada.
| | - Mireille Cyr
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, 90 avenue Vincent d'Indy, Montréal H2V 2S9, Québec, Canada.
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Mauny P, Guessoum SB, Moro MR, Radjack R, Carretier É. How parents experience their adolescent's disclosure of previous sexual abuse: a qualitative study. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:916. [PMID: 38057770 PMCID: PMC10698959 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05410-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parents whom adolescents disclose sexual abuse face both a personal traumatic experience, and the need to support their child who is going through a grueling period and needs them. Many quantitative studies exploring the psychological impact of disclosure on parents have been conducted, but few have used qualitative methods. The objective of this study is to explore parents' experiences of their adolescent's disclosure of sexual abuse during psychiatric care, identify the possible beneficial factors and shortcomings, share this knowledge, and improve interventions for these families. METHODS We conducted semi structured interviews with parents whose children disclosed sexual abuse during their psychiatric care in Paris and analyzed these interviews using a phenomenological framework (interpretative phenomenological analysis). RESULTS This study analyzed 13 semi structured interviews of 9 mothers and 4 fathers whose children were then aged 14 to 17 years. Qualitative analysis uncovered three themes: (1) Parents: alerts and search for support; (2) Between parents and adolescents: a disruption in relationships linked to the disclosure and its legal consequences; (3) Disclosure at the family level: the possible reactivation of a traumatic past and the search for a new equilibrium. CONCLUSIONS Considering the parental experience is essential in caring for adolescent patients after they disclose sexual abuse. The need for parental or family psychological support should be systematically assessed. Possible resurgence of parental trauma requires psychiatrists' careful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Mauny
- APHP, Cochin Hospital, Maison de Solenn, Paris, F-75014, France.
- Paris Est Créteil University, Créteil, France.
| | - Sélim Benjamin Guessoum
- APHP, Cochin Hospital, Maison de Solenn, Paris, F-75014, France
- Paris-Saclay University, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, F-94807, France
- Paris Cité University, PCPP, Boulogne-Billancourt, F-92100, France
- Pôle Psychiatrie de l'Adolescent, Institut MGEN, La Verrière, France
| | - Marie Rose Moro
- APHP, Cochin Hospital, Maison de Solenn, Paris, F-75014, France
- Paris-Saclay University, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, F-94807, France
- Paris Cité University, PCPP, Boulogne-Billancourt, F-92100, France
| | - Rahmeth Radjack
- APHP, Cochin Hospital, Maison de Solenn, Paris, F-75014, France
- Paris-Saclay University, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, F-94807, France
- Paris Cité University, PCPP, Boulogne-Billancourt, F-92100, France
| | - Émilie Carretier
- Paris-Saclay University, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, F-94807, France
- Paris Cité University, PCPP, Boulogne-Billancourt, F-92100, France
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Denne E, George SS, Stolzenberg SN. Developmental Considerations in How Defense Attorneys Employ Child Sexual Abuse and Rape Myths When Questioning Alleged Victims of Child Sexual Abuse. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:11914-11934. [PMID: 37530046 PMCID: PMC10619182 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231189512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Myths and misconceptions surrounding the nature of sexual assault play a role in shaping the perceptions of victims as credible and perpetrators as culpable. Defense attorneys often capitalize on myths in court as an element of their defense strategies. Researchers have established that myths about both rape generally, and child sexual abuse (CSA) specifically, appear with regularity in criminal trials of children who have made an allegation of CSA. Yet no work has systematically and quantitatively examined the impact of a child's age on the probability that attorneys will ask a myth-consistent question in criminal trials of CSA. In the current study, we examine 6,384 lines of questioning across 134 criminal trials of CSA to assess whether defense attorneys employ developmentally sensitive strategies when asking children questions that draw upon myths about sexual violence (CSA myths: disclosure myths, extent of harm, a child's positive relationship with their perpetrator, and the presence of witnesses; Rape myths: force and resistance, motives to lie, victim precipitation, and character issues). We found that attorneys did not vary their use of CSA myths by the age of the child. However, the probability that a child would receive a rape myth-consistent line of questioning, increased with a child's age. This work suggests that attorneys are, at times, strategic in their use of myths and employ these adult rape myths in ways that are plausible, purposeful, and likely impactful. The strategic use of these questions may acknowledge young children's limited development but may place too great a demand on older children's developmental capacities. Prosecutors should be prepared to counterquestion these myths in redirect examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Denne
- Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Gonultas Gönültaş BM. Relationship Between The "Sexual Abuse Whirlpool" and Gender, Type of Abuse, Victim-Perpetrator Relationship, Disclosure, Psychological Reactions, and Revictimization of Sexual Abuse Victims. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2023; 67:1493-1508. [PMID: 36892006 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x231159876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
According to the Sexual Abuse Whirlpool framework, when a vulnerable child is noticed by a perpetrator, the state of vulnerability he/she is in will reach a severe level. The SAW asserts that the method applied by the perpetrator has a multiplier effect on the child's vulnerability and accelerates the process resulting in abuse. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between the SAW and gender, type of abuse, victim-perpetrator relationship, disclosure, psychological complaints and reactions (PCRs), and revictimization of sexual abuse victims. A mixed research method was used: First, the vulnerabilities of the victims were extracted from the forensic interview forms with a qualitative method (n = 199). Then collected data were tabulated and digitized quantitatively. Victims who were exposed to penetrative abuses, who did not disclose, had serious PCRs, and who were re-victimized had high scores of the SAW. Whirlpool would decrease in places where there is a quality parent-child relationship.
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Hartman DT, Wang Y, Wu Y, Goldfarb D, Vidales D, Qin J, Eisen ML, Goodman GS. Childhood Sexual Abuse: A Longitudinal Study of Disclosures and Denials. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2023; 28:462-475. [PMID: 36988427 DOI: 10.1177/10775595231165335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In legal cases regarding child sexual abuse (CSA), children have various options, such as to disclose or deny maltreatment. When interviewed in adulthood, their accounts may be consistent with their childhood responses. Alternatively, denial in childhood could be followed in adulthood by disclosure ("deferred disclosure"), confirming previous suspicions. Or the adults could possibly recant. We conducted a longitudinal study of CSA disclosures and denials (N = 99; Time 1 [T1], 3- to 16-year-olds). T1 CSA disclosures and denials at a forensic unit were compared to the individuals' responses 20 years later (Time 2 [T2]. 22- to 37-years-old). We found that consistent disclosure was associated with being older at T1 and female. Deferred disclosure was significantly associated with greater T2 trauma-related symptoms. Corroboration and higher CSA severity predicted T2 recantation. Consistent denial was related to less severe CSA. Our findings add to knowledge about CSA disclosures, which affect legal pathways available to child victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana T Hartman
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Yuerui Wu
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Deborah Goldfarb
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Daisy Vidales
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jianjian Qin
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Mitchell L Eisen
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gail S Goodman
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Amar Wiem B, Hela S, Jihen J, Hatem K, Narjes K, Malek Z, ElKoury Houcine L, Samir M, Zouhir H. Sexual violence against women in southern Tunisia: Epidemiology and risk factors. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2023; 64:102272. [PMID: 37247464 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual violence (SV) against women represents a public health problem. Despite, the promulgation of the new Act of 2017-58, SV remains frequent in Tunisia. In this paper, we propose to determine the socio-demographic characteristics of women victims of SV and to identify risk factors related to serious SV. MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a retrospective, descriptive and analytical study including all women victims of SV, examined at the Forensic Department of Sfax Hospital, between 1st March 2018 and February 29th, 2020. We defined serious SV as any sexual violence associated with genital or anal lesions. RESULTS We collected 269 cases of women victims of SV. This sexual violence was associated with extra-genital physical violence in 18.86 % of the cases. The average age of the victims was 21.23 years (+/-10.67 years). The consultation delay was relatively long. Only 11.52 % of victims consulted within 24 h. It was mainly an extra-family abuse. Vaginal examination revealed recent defloration in 9.29 % of the cases. The proctological examination was normal in most cases (61.63 %).Seven victims were pregnant. In the analytical study, we studied the risk factors of serious SV against women. A total of 150 cases were considered serious (55.8 %). Serious SV was statistically related to the age (over 18),the profession (housewives),the origin (urban),and the relationship with the aggressor (friend, neighbor, or family member).The risk of serious SV was greater when the victim didn't have any traumatic extra-genital injury. CONCLUSION Sexual violence is a serious problem worldwide and in Tunisia. The Tunisian legislation repressing SV has been strengthened by the promulgation of the 2017-58 Act. However, much effort remains to be deployed to fight against this form of violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Amar Wiem
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Siala Hela
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Jedidi Jihen
- Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia; Preventive and Community Medicine Department of Hedi Chaker Hospital, Tunisia.
| | - Kallel Hatem
- Intensive Care Unit, Cayenne General Hospital, French Guiana, France; Tropical Biome and Immunopathology CNRS UMR-9017, Inserm U 1019, Université de Guyane, French Guiana, France
| | - Karray Narjes
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Zribi Malek
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Lebkem ElKoury Houcine
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Maatoug Samir
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Hammami Zouhir
- Forensic Department of Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia.
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Dykstra VW, Van der Kant R, Keller CE, Bruer KC, Price HL, Evans AD. The Impact of the Consistency of Child Witness and Peer Reports on Credibility. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:6601-6623. [PMID: 36451520 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221137708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Adults' perceptions of children's disclosures have important implications for the response to that disclosure. Children who experience adult transgressions, such as maltreatment, often choose to disclose this experience to a peer. Thus, peer disclosure recipients may transmit this disclosure to an adult or provide support for the child's own disclosure. Despite this, the influence of peer disclosure on a child witness's credibility, as well as on the perceptions of peer disclosure recipients, is unknown. The present study examined how child witnesses' and peer disclosure recipients' credibility is impacted when the peer either confirms or contradicts the witness's disclosure (or concealment) of an adult transgression. Participants listened to a child witness and peer being interviewed by an adult in one of four disclosure patterns (consistent disclose, consistent conceal, witness disclose/peer conceal, or witness conceal/peer disclose). Participants rated both the witness and the peer on dimensions of credibility (honesty and cognitive competence). Results revealed that both the witness and peer were more credible when their reports were consistent with one another. When inconsistent, the witness/peer who disclosed was considered more credible than the one who concealed. The findings indicate the potential importance of peers in the disclosure process as they may support the witness's report and even be a credible discloser when the witness is reluctant to disclose.
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13
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Berens KA, Anderson SF, Harvey MB, Coburn PI, Price HL, Chong K, Connolly DA. Categorizing Complainant-Accused Relationships in Cases of Child Sexual Abuse: The Distinctive Nature of Community Connections. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2023; 32:513-531. [PMID: 36974376 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2023.2194297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We examined the categorization of relationships between child complainants and accused perpetrators in cases of child sexual abuse (CSA). Researchers that have focused on complainant-accused relationships and other case variables, often combining two extrafamilial complainant-accused relationship categories: Relationships where the accused is connected to the child through their position in the community (i.e. community connections) and relationships where the non-relative accused is known to the child through a connection to the child's family (i.e. non-relative family connections). Using a database of 4,237 Canadian judicial decisions in cases of CSA, we reviewed a subset of 1,515 judicial decisions to explore differences between these two relationship categories. Compared to cases involving non-relative family connections, cases involving community connections had more male complainants, more multiple complainants, older complainants, higher frequencies of abuse, longer durations, and longer delays. We conclude that community and non-relative family connections are distinct relationships that should be separated for analyses in future research. Practical implications of recognizing the distinctiveness of non-relative family and community connection relationship categories in the context of abuse prevention and treatment are also discussed.
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Ramaswamy S, Devgun M, Seshadri S, Bunders-Aelen J. Balancing the law with children's rights to participation and decision-making: Practice guidelines for mandatory reporting processes in child sexual abuse. Asian J Psychiatr 2023; 81:103464. [PMID: 36645974 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2023.103464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
In India, legal response to a sexual offence, namely, punishment of the perpetrator,relies nearly entirely on mandatory reporting provisions in child sexual abuse law.Mandatory reporting forms an important first step in the medico-legal processes of CSAwork, because it leads onto other legal interventions in CSA cases. However, social, stigma, perceived harassment, rampant gender stereotypes, the unwillingness of, family, disbelief of the victim, and threats by the perpetrator are a few of the many, barriers to mandatory reporting in the Indian context. One particularly insufficiently, addressed critical barrier in the global and Indian literature on CSA and law stems from the reluctance of children to allow child protection and mental health professionals to report to relevant authorities. There are few guidelines or practical strategies available,on how to engage children in mandatory reporting processes. This article uses a childcentric lens to propose the need to balance children's rights to participation and decision-making with the mandatory reporting law. It proposes a conceptual frameworkthat acknowledges the imperatives and challenges of the mandatory reporting law and its implementation, whilst also recognizing children's barriers to abuse disclosures andtheir rights to make decisions and provide consent on reporting issues. It culminates in a guideline for child mental health and protection service providers, offering step-bystep support on navigating the challenges and dilemmas of mandatory reporting through suggested scripts that engage children to enable more effective reporting ofCSA to child protection systems and relevant legal authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Ramaswamy
- SAMVAD(Support, Advocacy & Mental health interventions for children in Vulnerable circumstances And Distress), Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, India.
| | | | - Shekhar Seshadri
- SAMVAD(Support, Advocacy & Mental health interventions for children in Vulnerable circumstances And Distress), Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, India.
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15
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Chen M, Wang G, Sun X, Meng M, Jiang Y, Sun W, Deng Y, Zhu Q, Jiang F. The effects of maternal prenatal depression on child mental health: The moderating role of maternal childhood trauma. J Affect Disord 2023; 324:403-409. [PMID: 36586610 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.12.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a large body of evidence suggesting that maternal prenatal depression significantly predicts mental health problems in children. However, little is known about the role of maternal childhood trauma within this effect. METHODS The current study utilized a sample of 187 mother-child dyads (51.3 % boys) from the Shanghai Sleep Birth Cohort (SSBC), a six-year prospective longitudinal study. The effects of maternal depression at late pregnancy (Center for Epidemiological Survey-Depression Scale) on the child mental health at six years old (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) were analyzed, with different types of maternal childhood trauma (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire) being examined as moderators. RESULTS The results showed that maternal prenatal depression positively predicted child mental health problems (β = 0.13, p < .05) and there was a significant moderating effect of maternal childhood emotional abuse (β = -0.05, p < .05); that is, in mothers with high childhood emotional abuse, child mental health problems remained high regardless of maternal prenatal depression (β = -0.02, p = .78), while in mothers with low childhood emotional abuse, maternal prenatal depression significantly predicted child behavioral and emotional problems (β = 0.20, p < .05). LIMITATIONS Relatively high socio-economic status samples, retrospective reports of maternal childhood trauma and the single reporter were the limitations of this study. CONCLUSIONS The findings provided new insights into the impact of maternal prenatal depression on child mental health, highlighting the importance of intervention efforts targeting mothers with prenatal depression and childhood trauma history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghai Wang
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoning Sun
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Min Meng
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanrui Jiang
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanqi Sun
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujiao Deng
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan Jiang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Pediatric Translational Medicine Institution, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Technology, Shanghai, China.
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16
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Lateef R, Alaggia R, Collin-Vézina D, McElvaney R. The Legacy of Shame following Childhood Sexual Abuse Disclosures. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2023; 32:184-203. [PMID: 36656278 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2022.2159910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Shame has been recognized as a barrier to child sexual abuse (CSA) disclosures, but there has been less focus on the impact of shame on post-disclosure. This study explores how shame is experienced by CSA survivors following disclosure. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven CSA survivors aged 14-25 years on their CSA disclosure experiences. Thematic analysis of the transcripts produced four themes that highlight the various impacts of shame post-disclosure: 1) struggles with identifying as a sexual abuse survivor; 2) manifestations of shame; 3) shaming responses to disclosures; and 4) strategies to overcome shame. Clinical implications are presented using a social ecological perspective.
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17
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Kita S, Ochiai K, Sato Y, Akiyama S, Abe M, Tashita K, Tanaka H, Matsumoto F, Hayashi S, Kohashi K, Tsujino K, Uchiyama K, Tsukamatsu K, Ikeda U, Ikeda M, Suzuki H. Development of the Training Program on Child Abuse Prevention for Citizens (TCAP-C) and Its Effects and Acceptability: Community-Based Participatory Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1414. [PMID: 36674179 PMCID: PMC9859189 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
AIM We developed the Training Program on Child Abuse Prevention for Citizens (TCAP-C) and tested its effects and acceptability among citizen leaders (CLs). METHODS Community-based participatory research using a pretest-posttest follow-up design was conducted in Tokyo, Japan from September 2021 to March 2022. Participants completed questionnaires before, upon completion, and one month and three months after TCAP-C. Recognition, knowledge, and behaviors regarding child abuse and community consciousness were collected and compared before and one and three months after TCAP-C, and the degree of satisfaction, understanding, and meaningfulness were collected upon completion. We analyzed data using repeated-measures ANCOVA. RESULTS A total of 111, 98, 101, and 94 participants completed the questionnaires before, upon completion, and one and three months after TCAP-C, respectively. Overall, the recognition, knowledge, and community consciousness scores significantly improved from before to one month and three months after TCAP-C. Regarding the behaviors, only the behaviors of learning and watching over were significantly improved from before to one month after TCAP-C; however, those behaviors were not different between before and three months after TCAP-C. Furthermore, 95% participants reported being entirely satisfied with TCAP-C, and 85% and 91% reported good understanding and meaningfulness of the program. CONCLUSIONS TCAP-C is acceptable and can improve CL recognition, knowledge, and community consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Kita
- Department of Family Nursing, Division of Health Sciences & Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1130033, Japan
- Department of Health Quality and Outcome Research, Global Nursing Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1130033, Japan
- Department of Health Policy, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo 1578535, Japan
| | | | - Yoichi Sato
- Kameido 6-Chome Higashi Town, Koto-City, Tokyo 1360071, Japan
| | - Saburo Akiyama
- NPO KOTO Parent-Child Center/Home Start KOTO, Tokyo 1360072, Japan
| | - Mitsushiro Abe
- Western Federation of Koto-City Juvenile Organization Liaison Council, Tokyo 1350016, Japan
| | - Keiichi Tashita
- Koto District Youth Committee, Koto-City, Tokyo 1350016, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tanaka
- Children and Youth Affairs, Koto-City, Tokyo 1350016, Japan
| | | | | | - Kosuke Kohashi
- Kamogawa Kokuho Municipal Hospital, Chiba 2960112, Japan
| | - Keiichiro Tsujino
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo 1010061, Japan
| | | | | | - Utako Ikeda
- Association Positive Discipline Community, Tokyo 4080307, Japan
| | - Mari Ikeda
- Department of Family Nursing, Division of Health Sciences & Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1130033, Japan
- Department of Health Quality and Outcome Research, Global Nursing Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1130033, Japan
| | - Hidehiro Suzuki
- College of Risk Management, Nihon University, Tokyo 1028275, Japan
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18
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Denne E, St George S, Stolzenberg SN. Myths and Misunderstandings About Child Sexual Abuse in Criminal Investigations. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:NP1893-NP1919. [PMID: 35506415 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221093679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Researchers have established that rape myths shape perceptions of victims and perpetrators in criminal cases. Researchers have devoted less attention to exploring the impact of child sexual abuse (CSA) myths in court. While we know that jurors believe myths and misconceptions about the nature of CSA, no work has explored how these myths appear during the prosecution of CSA cases. The purpose of the present investigation was to assess how defense attorneys apply myths more specific to CSA in the questioning of children testifying about alleged CSA. The present study compliments and expands upon a previous study by St. George and colleagues (2021a), where authors examined the use of rape myths in the questioning of children making allegations of CSA. In the current study, we examined testimonies of 122 children testifying in criminal cases of alleged CSA in the United States. We qualitatively coded 6,384 lines of questioning for references to CSA-focused myths related to the disclosure process, witnesses and privacy issues, assumptions of harm, and the child's positive relationship with the perpetrator. These myths were common, occurring in over 10% of defense attorneys' lines of questioning. Disclosure issues were the most frequent, followed by witness and privacy issues, assumptions of harm, and the child's positive relationship with their perpetrator. In many cases, attorneys employed different strategies across child's age to highlight these myths. These findings compliment those of prior work suggesting that CSA myths, much like rape myths, are appearing with regularity. Defense attorneys are likely capitalizing on jurors' misconceptions to undermine children's believability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Denne
- New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, 3357Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - Suzanne St George
- School of Criminal Justice and Criminology, 14658University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Stacia N Stolzenberg
- Criminology and Criminal Justice, 7864Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Patterson T, Campbell A, La Rooy D, Hobbs L, Clearwater K, Rapsey C. Impact, Ramifications and Taking Back Control: A Qualitative Study of Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:NP1868-NP1892. [PMID: 35487882 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221094629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing recognition of the occurrence and frequency of male childhood sexual abuse (MCSA). Quantitative and qualitative research has demonstrated a number of adverse outcomes associated with MCSA in terms of mental health, physical health and difficulties in behavioural, social or interrelationship functioning. The present study gives voice to male survivors of childhood sexual abuse by exploring themes around the impact of MCSA over the course of their life. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) of semi-structured interviews with nine male survivors of childhood sexual abuse identified a single overarching theme of control and six related superordinate themes of: (i) responsibility, blame and shame; (ii) development of knowledge about sex and abuse; (iii) avoidance of coping with abuse; (iv) effects on relationships as adults; (v) disclosure of abuse to others; and (vi) gaining a sense of meaning of the abuse. The findings showed that being sexually abused defines and controls a person's life, and that despite the difficulties experienced by victims to move past the abuse, some experienced a degree of personal growth. The findings illustrate the way in which individuals can create meaning around their abuse experiences and take back control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tess Patterson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, 2495University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Opentia Research Focus Area, 56405North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Anna Campbell
- Department of Psychological Medicine, 2495University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David La Rooy
- Department of Psychological Medicine, 2495University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Linda Hobbs
- Department of Psychological Medicine, 2495University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ken Clearwater
- 93866Male Survivors Aotearoa, Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse Trust, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Charlene Rapsey
- Department of Psychological Medicine, 2495University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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20
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Stige SH, Andersen AC, Halvorsen JE, Halvorsen MS, Binder PE, Måkestad E, Albæk AU. Possible paths to increase detection of child sexual abuse in child and adolescent psychiatry: a meta-synthesis of survivors’ and health professionals’ experiences of addressing child sexual abuse. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2022; 17:2103934. [PMID: 35904225 PMCID: PMC9341329 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2022.2103934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Efforts are directed both towards prevention and early detection of Child sexual abuse (CSA). Yet, only about 50% of CSA survivors disclose before adulthood, and health professionals rarely are the first disclosure recipients. Increasing the detection rate of CSA within the context of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (CAP) therefore represents a significant secondary prevention strategy. However, facilitating CSA disclosure when the survivor is reluctant to tell is a highly complex and emotionally demanding clinical task. We therefore argue that efforts to increase detection rates of CSA within CAP need to rest on knowledge of how both survivors and health professionals experience addressing CSA. Method Using meta-ethnography as method, we present separate sub-syntheses as well an overarching joint synthesis of how survivors and health professionals experience addressing CSA. Results Results show how both survivors and health professionals facing CSA disclosure feel deeply isolated, they experience the consequences of addressing CSA as highly unpredictable, and they need support from others to counteract the negative impact of CSA. Conclusion The results indicate that adapting the organization of CAP to knowledge of how the survivors and health professionals experience addressing CSA is critical to facilitate earlier disclosure of CSA within CAP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann Christin Andersen
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare (RKBU), Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway and Møre Og Romsdal Hospital Trust, Volda, Norway
| | | | | | - Per-Einar Binder
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Ane Ugland Albæk
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, Department of Psychosocial Health, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
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21
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Facilitators and Barriers to Child Sexual Abuse Interventions: A Qualitative Study of Interventions in Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/ijpbs-129326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Child sexual abuse is a public health problem in most countries. Sensitization, research, and programs for identifying and preventing child sexual abuse have been carried out at the national level with increased political and social awareness and international commitments to decline its consequences. Objectives: This study investigated the facilitators and barriers to community-based interventions for child sexual abuse. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted between September 2021 and March 2022 with 15 purposefully selected experts. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the content analysis method. Results: Several barriers and facilitators affected child sexual abuse interventions. The barriers included: (1) sociocultural challenges; (2) legal challenges and gaps; and (3) managerial-structural challenges, while the facilitators were: (1) the improvement of the quality of provided services; and (2) facilitative role of the law. Conclusions: Social interventions for child sexual abuse could consider some items to improve implementation, namely as follow: (1) the intersectional cooperation of organizations and beneficiaries to conduct child abuse interventions for children and their families at the local and national levels; (2) the implementation of empowerment activities for the return of children and parents to the community after child sexual abuse; and (3) the revision of the laws and establishment of more deterrent punishments.
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22
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Dykstra VW, Harvey MB, Bruer KC, Price HL, Evans AD. To Disclose or Not to Disclose? The Influence of Consistently Disclosing and Disclosure Recipient on Perceptions of Children's Credibility. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP16907-NP16930. [PMID: 34107817 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211025021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
With age, children become increasingly likely to make initial disclosures of transgressions, such as maltreatment, to peers. The present study examined adults' credibility evaluations of children's disclosures to peers across two studies. Study 1 examined credibility evaluations when children disclosed (or concealed) to a peer compared to an adult. Study 2 examined credibility ratings when children disclosed consistently or inconsistently across peer and adult interviews. Children were interviewed by a same-age peer and an adult regarding an event where an adult confederate spilled water on a laptop and broke it. In Study 1, participants heard a child interviewed by either a same-age peer or adult. In Study 2, participants heard a child interviewed by both the same-age peer and adult. In both studies, participants evaluated the child's credibility. Children who disclosed the transgression were rated as significantly less credible than those who concealed the transgression; however, credibility ratings did not differ by whether the child was interviewed by a peer or adult (Study 1). Furthermore, children who concealed the transgression across both interviews were rated as significantly more credible than children who disclosed in both interviews or disclosed to the peer, but not the adult, interviewer (Study 2). The current study provides the first evidence that peer disclosures may hinder children's credibility and that adults may be hesitant to believe children's disclosures of an adult's transgression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Heather L Price
- University of Regina, SK, Canada
- Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, Canada
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23
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Williams S, Bruer KC, Evans AD, Price HL. The impact of COVID-19 on Canadian child maltreatment workers. CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW 2022; 138:106492. [PMID: 35400775 PMCID: PMC8983073 DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As cases of child maltreatment become an increasing concern during the COVID-19 pandemic, the perspectives of those charged with protecting and supporting children and families is an important area of inquiry. We sought to examine the experiences of child maltreatment workers during the first wave of the pandemic (i.e., May-July 2020). We specifically aimed to examine child maltreatment experiences related to the following: (1) their work practices during the pandemic, (2) their perceived safety during the pandemic, and (3) their perceptions on the safety of the children and families with whom they work. A total of 106 child maltreatment investigators and forensic interviewers provided responses to a national survey disseminated across Canada. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected through a survey management program. The survey combined both open-ended and forced choice questions to gather perspectives on respondents' experiences. More than half (67%) reported a reduction in their caseloads during the pandemic (May-July 2020) and continued in-person interviews, with the use of preventative health measures (i.e., PPE, physical distancing, gloves). Most respondents reported elevated stress levels and similarly high stress levels amongst the children and families to whom they provide services. Overall, our findings highlight both how child maltreatment investigators have adapted to preventative measures and the continuing areas of weakness where further supports are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanna Williams
- Faculty of Education, McGill University, Room 614, Education Building, 3700 McTavish Street, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1Y2, Canada
| | - Kaila C Bruer
- Faculty of Arts, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
- Luther College, Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Angela D Evans
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A, Canada
| | - Heather L Price
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Thompson Rivers University, 805 TRU Way, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C8, Canada
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Kirkner A, Plummer SB, Findley PA, McMahon S. Campus Sexual Violence Victims with Disabilities: Disclosure and Help Seeking. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP7156-NP7177. [PMID: 33103557 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520967149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Undergraduate students with disabilities represent an important population on college campuses. Yet the incidence of sexual violence and disclosing/reporting of sexual violence among this population is understudied. This exploratory and largely descriptive study uses an intersectional framework to understand the sexual victimization of undergraduate students with disabilities at a large Mid-Atlantic academic institution. The sample consisted of students who completed a sexual violence module (N = 2,929) as part of a larger campus climate survey. Students with disabilities comprised a smaller sample within this group (n = 177) and descriptive and chi-square results from both groups of students are reported. Students with disabilities had a statistically significant higher likelihood of sexual violence victimization before coming to campus and while at the university, with much higher rates for precollege victimization than students with no disabilities. Disclosure rates were not different for students across the two groups, though students with disabilities were more likely to utilize formal sources of support, such as campus Title IX offices and mental health services. This study shows support for a strengths-based approach that recognizes that students with disabilities may be more likely to reach out to campus resources. The findings of the study also underscore the need for culturally relevant victim services for students with disabilities. An evaluation of the culture of a university and its environment of openness, sharing, community, and protection (or lack thereof) can be a key point for future approaches to sexual violence on campus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Kirkner
- Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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25
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Foster I, Talwar V, Crossman A. The role of rapport in eliciting children’s truthful reports. APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10888691.2022.2058507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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26
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Craig E. Teaching Safeguarding through Books: A Content Analysis of Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Books. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2022; 31:257-275. [PMID: 34670473 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2021.1985672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Research attests that when children are given essential knowledge about Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) prevention, such as the maintenance of boundaries and personal space, the correct anatomical names for genitals, and information on how to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate touching, children are less likely to experience sexual abuse and more likely to disclose abuse they have already encountered. CSA prevention books aim to teach children safety skills, helping to inform them on how to assess a situation and what to do if they are made to feel uncomfortable. This research analyzes 44 CSA prevention books to ascertain whether they are in line with academic recommendations as to what knowledge children should be taught in order to protect them, as much as possible, from sexual abuse. While most of the books do follow advice derived from the academic literature, only 7 books contained 70% or more of the information research determined to be essential. Despite the documented importance of teaching children anatomically correct names for genitals, this was missing in 91% of books analyzed. It is recommended, therefore, in order to ensure sufficient coverage of essential information, that multiple CSA prevention books are obtained for, and read with, children.
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Cooley DT, Jackson Y. Informant Discrepancies in Child Maltreatment Reporting: A Systematic Review. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2022; 27:126-145. [PMID: 33054358 DOI: 10.1177/1077559520966387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Potential informants on child maltreatment include the youth who has experienced the alleged maltreatment, and the youth's caregivers, social workers and case files. When multiple informants are compared, they often disagree about whether or not a youth has experienced maltreatment. Such determinations are critical as endorsement-or lack of endorsement-of maltreatment can have significant consequences on the child's safety, future living arrangements and referral for treatment and services. The current study provides a systematic review of the literature on informant discrepancies in child maltreatment. Three databases-PsychINFO, Web of Science, and PubMed-were used to identify studies for the review and 13 articles met inclusion criteria. Results showed that more youth tend to report physical, sexual and emotional abuse than seen in case files. By contrast, more case files include neglect than reported by youth. Implications and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daryl T Cooley
- Department of Psychology, The 8082Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Yo Jackson
- Department of Psychology, The 8082Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Mordi H, Katz C, Tener D, Savaya R. Disclosing the abuse: The effect of ethnoreligious identity on CSA disclosure in forensic interviews. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 124:105441. [PMID: 34952460 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Multiple studies have examined sexually abused children and their interactions with the legal system, as manifested in children's disclosures of sexual abuse during forensic interviews. Nevertheless, few have done so while referencing contextual variables, such as ethnoreligious identity. The current study was designed to examine how ethnoreligious identity affects children's disclosure in forensic interviews beyond the contribution of child characteristics and abuse characteristics. In addition, the moderating role of pre-interview disclosure was examined. An analysis of 1054 forensic interviews conducted in Israel indicated a relationship between a child's age, gender, and abuse characteristics (i.e., perpetrator identity and type of abuse) with the likelihood of disclosure during the forensic interview. The results indicated a relationship between ethnoreligious identity and forensic disclosure. Unexpectedly, Muslim Arab children were more likely to disclose than Jewish children. Predictably, pre-interview disclosure moderated the relationship between abuse characteristics and ethnoreligious identity (among Jews) and forensic disclosure. Conversely, it did not moderate the relationship between child characteristics and disclosure during the forensic interview. The findings demonstrate the importance of a context-informed examination of child abuse disclosure and its potential to advance the development of services adapted to children from diverse communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanin Mordi
- Bob Shapell School of Socil Work, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Carmit Katz
- Bob Shapell School of Socil Work, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dafna Tener
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rivka Savaya
- Bob Shapell School of Socil Work, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Gewehr E, Hensel B, Volbert R. Predicting disclosure latency in substantiated cases of child sexual abuse. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 122:105346. [PMID: 34627040 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Children who experience sexual abuse (CSA) often delay disclosure, thus impeding early interventions. This study explores predictors of disclosure latency in a sample of forensically substantiated cases. METHODS Court files were analyzed for a total of 124 cases of CSA. The ground truth of the alleged victims' statements had been substantiated by at least one inclusion criterion-an evaluation of the alleged victims' statement as credible by psychological experts applying Statement Validity Assessment (SVA), or the conviction of the suspected offender by the court. Six possible predictors of disclosure latency were tested individually and in a joint negative binomial regression model. RESULTS Younger age of the child at abuse onset and intrafamilial (vs. extrafamilial) child-perpetrator relationships (including stepparents) were associated with prolonged disclosure latency. No predictive evidence was found for the child's gender, severity of abuse, or offender's usage of violent or nonphysical strategies to prevent disclosure. CONCLUSION This study contributes to understanding the processes of disclosure by reassessing formerly identified predictors of disclosure latency in a sample of forensically substantiated cases. Results are in line with suggestions to further develop effective prevention programs for younger children (e.g., for elementary school) and to explicitly discuss the issue of intrafamilial abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Gewehr
- Universität Kassel, Holländische Straße 36-38, 34127 Kassel, Germany; Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Am Köllnischen Park 2, 10179 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Brigitte Hensel
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Germany.
| | - Renate Volbert
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Germany; Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Am Köllnischen Park 2, 10179 Berlin, Germany.
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30
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Tong D, Wyman J, Talwar V. Using cognitive instructions to elicit narrative differences between children's true and false testimonies. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Donia Tong
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology McGill University Montréal Quebec Canada
| | - Joshua Wyman
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology McGill University Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities Ontario Tech University Oshawa Ontario Canada
| | - Victoria Talwar
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology McGill University Montréal Quebec Canada
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Principe GF, Kirkpatrick H, Langley S. A focus on accuracy in misinformed mothers puts young children at risk for false memories. J Exp Child Psychol 2021; 214:105274. [PMID: 34507183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2021.105274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This research examined how mothers' goal orientation and exposure to misinformation can shape how mothers engage their children in conversation about past experiences and consequently affect the accuracy of children's memory reports. To investigate this question, 169 mothers were asked to talk with their preschool-age children (Mage = 55 months, SD = 6.15; 90 female) about an earlier nonshared event. Some mothers were instructed to focus on eliciting an accurate account, whereas others were told to talk naturally as in everyday life. Before this conversation, some mothers in each goal condition were exposed to misleading information about what their children experienced. Mothers focused on accuracy exhibited more bias in their conversations than those centered on talking naturally. When later interviewed, children with accuracy-focused mothers made more false reports and recalled less correct details than those with natural-focused mothers. These trends were found even when mothers were not misinformed. The implications of these results for children's eyewitness memory and suggestibility are discussed.
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Denne E, Stolzenberg SN, Neal TMS. The effects of evidence-based expert testimony on perceptions of child sexual abuse involving recantation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254961. [PMID: 34351935 PMCID: PMC8341590 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Child sexual abuse (CSA) cases involving recantation invoke concerns about children’s reliability. Expert testimony can help explain the complexities of these cases. Experts have historically relied on Child Sexual Abuse Accommodation Syndrome (CSAAS), yet this is not science-based. In a CSA case involving recantation, how would evidence-based testimony affect perceptions of child credibility when compared to CSAAS? Across 2 studies, we test the effects of expert testimony based on evidence-based science, nonscientific evidence, and experience-based evidence on outcomes in CSA cases involving recantation. Evidence-based testimony led to higher perceptions of credibility and scientific rigor of the evidence when compared to CSAAS testimony. Evidence-based testimony also led to more guilty verdicts when compared to the control. In sum, jurors had some ability to detect evidence strength, such that evidence-based expert testimony was superior to CSAAS testimony in many respects, and consistently superior to experience-based testimony in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Denne
- New College of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, Arizona, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Stacia N. Stolzenberg
- Criminology and Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Tess M. S. Neal
- New College of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, Arizona, United States of America
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Wismayanti YF, O'Leary P, Tilbury C, Tjoe Y. The problematization of child sexual abuse in policy and law: The Indonesian example. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 118:105157. [PMID: 34146965 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indonesia has a strong national child protection policy. Yet significant limitations exist in laws, policy implementation, and coordination of services, especially regarding child sexual abuse. This is related to a lack of knowledge about child sexual abuse in Indonesia and associated taboos that constrain policy development. OBJECTIVE To understand how child sexual abuse problems have been represented in national child protection policy. METHOD 'What's the problem represented to be' (Bacchi, 2009) is an analytic approach that uses discourse analysis. This method was employed to examine how child sexual abuse problems in Indonesia are constructed and represented in six government documents (two laws and four national policies). RESULTS Three overarching problem representations of child sexual abuse were identified: (1) children are a vulnerable, at risk, and disempowered group; (2) service access is limited and services are not coordinated; and (3) there is a lack of agreement and clarity across laws and policy in child protection. For example, inconsistencies of policy and laws regarding the minimum age for marriage can result in gender discrimination and limit a child's access to justice, protection, and services. CONCLUSION Policy discourses play a crucial role in the construction and representation of child sexual abuse problems in Indonesia. Current inconsistencies constrain the implementation of effective intervention and prevention programs. Further work on policy harmony is needed as well as improving community understanding of child sexual abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick O'Leary
- School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, Australia; Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, Australia.
| | - Clare Tilbury
- School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, Australia.
| | - Yenny Tjoe
- Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University, Australia.
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Grandgenett HM, Pittenger SL, Dworkin ER, Hansen DJ. Telling a trusted adult: Factors associated with the likelihood of disclosing child sexual abuse prior to and during a forensic interview. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 116:104193. [PMID: 31561907 PMCID: PMC7089833 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.104193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many child sexual abuse (CSA) survivors delay or withhold disclosure of their abuse, even when presenting for formal investigation interviews. OBJECTIVE This study examined factors that relate to the CSA disclosure process. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTINGS Participants were CSA victims (N = 1,732) presenting to a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) for a forensic interview. METHOD We tested a structural model to predict disclosure before and during a forensic interview using secondary data analysis. RESULTS Youth were less likely to disclose before a forensic interview if they witnessed domestic violence (β = -.233, p < .05). Caregivers were less likely to believe the abuse allegation if the alleged perpetrator resided in the home β = -.386, p < .05) and more likely to believe if the youth made a prior disclosure (β = .286, p < .05). Youth were more likely to disclose during the forensic interview if they were older (β = .388, p < .05), if the alleged perpetrator resided in their home (β = .209, p < .05), if they disclosed prior (β = .254, p < .05), and if their caregiver believed the allegation (β = .213, p < . 05). The alleged perpetrator residing in the youth's home (β = -0.082, p < .05) and making a prior disclosure (β = 0.060, p < .05) were both indirectly associated with forensic interview disclosure through caregiver belief. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the importance of the family context and caregiver belief in the disclosure process for youth involved in formal CSA investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna M Grandgenett
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Psychology, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
| | - Samantha L Pittenger
- Yale School of Medicine, Division of Prevention and Community Research, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George Street New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Emily R Dworkin
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - David J Hansen
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Psychology, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
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McWilliams K, Stolzenberg SN, Williams S, Lyon T. Increasing maltreated and nonmaltreated children's recall disclosures of a minor transgression: The effects of back-channel utterances, a promise to tell the truth, and a post-recall putative confession. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 116:104073. [PMID: 31409449 PMCID: PMC10129285 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.104073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children are often hesitant to disclose transgressions, particularly when they feel implicated, and frequently remain reluctant until confronted with direct questions. Given the risks associated with direct questions, an important issue is how interviewers can encourage honesty through recall questions. OBJECTIVE The present study examined the use of three truth induction strategies for increasing the accuracy and productivity of children's reports about a transgression. PARTICIPANTS A total of 285 4-to-9-year-old maltreated and nonmaltreated children. METHODS Each child took part in a play session with a stranger during which the child appeared to break some toys. A research assistant interviewed the child with narrative practice rapport building and recall questions. The study included manipulations of back-channel utterances (brief expressions used to communicate attention and interest), whether (and when) the child was asked to promise to tell the truth, and the use of a post-recall putative confession. RESULTS Back-channel utterances failed to increase disclosure (OR = 0.79 [95% CI: 0.48, 1.31]) but increased the productivity of children's reports about broken (p = 0.04, ηp = 0.02) and unbroken toys (p = 0.004, ηp = 0.03). A promise to tell the truth significantly increased children's disclosures, but only among nonmaltreated children (OR = 3.65 [95% CI: 1.23, 10.90]). The post-recall putative confession elicited new disclosures from about half of children who had failed to disclose. CONCLUSIONS The findings highlight the difficulties of eliciting honest responses from children about suspected transgressions and the need for flexible questioning strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly McWilliams
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, 524 West 59th Street, New York, NY 10019, United States.
| | - Stacia N Stolzenberg
- School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, 411 N. Central Ave., Suite 600, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States.
| | - Shanna Williams
- Gould School of Law, University of Southern California, 699 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90089, United States.
| | - Thomas Lyon
- Gould School of Law, University of Southern California, 699 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90089, United States.
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36
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Manay N, Collin-Vézina D. Recipients of children's and adolescents' disclosures of childhood sexual abuse: A systematic review. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 116:104192. [PMID: 31564382 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.104192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Disclosure of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a complex, multifaceted process with many barriers that are largely shaped by individual, familial, and systemic characteristics. Children and youth tend to withhold or delay disclosure for many years, such that most CSA goes unreported. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence regarding the pathways and recipients of CSA disclosures and to identify potential developmental and gender differences in the recipients of disclosures. Thirty-seven studies conducted between 1990 and 2017 were selected for review. Results indicated that children and youth follow a gradual pattern of disclosure, whereby they first disclose to peers before disclosing to a parent or trusted adult, who can then help the child report to a person of authority. Key developmental patterns in CSA disclosure were identified, whereby older children and adolescents are significantly more likely to turn to peers, keeping the abuse largely hidden from adults. Gender differences were also found, whereby girls are more likely to seek emotional support by disclosing to peers, whereas boys are significantly less likely to disclose the abuse all together; when boys do disclose, they tend to do so for practical reasons, such as protection or accessing services. This review contributes to our understanding of the various pathways of CSA disclosure and highlights the importance of further understanding youth-directed disclosures and how the reactions of informal recipients of disclosures may impact further disclosures to authorities and professionals. Research and clinical implications of the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Manay
- Centre for Research on Children and Families, McGill University, Canada Suite 106, Wilson Hall, 3506 University Street, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2A7, Canada.
| | - Delphine Collin-Vézina
- Centre for Research on Children and Families, McGill University, Canada Suite 106, Wilson Hall, 3506 University Street, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2A7, Canada.
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Gongola J, Williams S, Lyon TD. Children's
under‐informative
responding is associated with concealment of a transgression. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Gongola
- Gould School of Law University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | - Shanna Williams
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, Faculty of Education McGill University Montreal Quebec Canada
| | - Thomas D. Lyon
- Gould School of Law University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
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Baía PAD, Alberto IMM, Dell'Aglio DD. Predictors of recantation after child sexual abuse disclosure among a Brazilian sample. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 115:105006. [PMID: 33711777 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recantation after child sexual abuse (CSA) disclosure refers to the complete denial of prior reports by a victim. In substantiated cases of CSA, recantation has negative effects on criminal proceedings and the protection of current and future victims. Past studies have identified the socio-family factors and CSA characteristics that are associated with recantation. However, the systematization of these risk factors remains limited. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify the predictors of recantation using a sample of criminal cases of CSA. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTINGS The sample consisted of 108 criminal cases of CSA with (n = 46) and without recantation (n = 62). All the cases had been judged in a Brazilian court of law between 2010 and 2016. RESULTS The final logistic regression model consisted of the following five significant predictors of recantation: a lack of support from the caregiver (odds ratio [OR] = 15.90, p < .001), disclosure to a single individual (OR = 13.75, p = .001), parental offending (OR = 12.44, p = .001), a long time interval (i.e., >one week) between disclosure and the reporting of the abuse to the authorities (OR = 8.64, p = .003), and a higher number of formal interviews (OR = 1.50, p = .052). CONCLUSIONS The present findings underscore not only the effects of socio-family factors and the number of interviews on recantation but also the importance of examining the contexts within which previous disclosures of CSA have been made to the assessment of the risk of recantation.
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Wallis CRD, Woodworth M. Non-offending caregiver support in cases of child sexual abuse: An examination of the impact of support on formal disclosures. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 113:104929. [PMID: 33484983 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.104929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a highly prevalent issue, impacting a substantial number of children globally (12 %; Stoltenborgh et al., 2011). Past research has found many children who have been sexually abused will delay their disclosure until adulthood, if they disclose at all (McElvaney, 2015; Reitsema & Grietens, 2016). This is often likely because of the adverse impact that reporting abuse can have for the child and their families (especially when committed by an intrafamilial perpetrator). Non-offending caregiver support has evidenced promise in increasing rates of disclosure (Cyr et al., 2014). OBJECTIVE It was hypothesized that higher levels of caregiver support would result in shorter delays of disclosure and that less support is given when the abuser is closely related to the child. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING CSA cases (n = 164) were pulled from the RCMP database of reported crimes for the greater Okanagan Area, British Columbia, Canada. METHODS Cases were coded for non-offending caregiver behaviors that indicated support and for relation to perpetrator. RESULTS Higher levels of non-offending caregiver support were found to lead to shorter delays of disclosure. Non-offending caregivers were significantly less supportive when the abuser was more closely related. CONCLUSIONS Caregiver support acted as a protective factor against delays of disclosure. However, this support decreased significantly when the abuser was closely related. The current study provides evidence for the need to support caregivers of children who have been abused with educational programs and resources so they can properly support the child impacted.
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Bhattacharyya A, Lev-Wiesel R, Banerjee M. Roles of Emotional Reactions and Potency in Coping with Abusive Experiences of Indian Adolescent. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2021; 14:61-72. [PMID: 33708283 PMCID: PMC7900284 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-020-00312-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Victimized children's perceptions of the severity of abusive incidents have been found to be associated with their willingness to disclose. However, the relationship between perceptions, disclosure, and coping processes of abused Indian adolescents, has rarely been studied. To explore the roles of emotional reactions associated with disclosure, and potency on individuals' perception of the severity of abusive incidents, reluctance to disclose, and posttraumatic stress symptoms. A randomly selected sample, consisting of 324 adolescents (aged 12 to 16) in Kolkata, India was included. Of these, 170 adolescents disclosed incidents of abuse last year. Data were analyzed by conditional process modeling. A moderated mediation analysis (n = 170) revealed that the overall perception of the severity of abusive incidents predicted greater reluctance to disclose (B = .63, p < .0001) through heightened emotional reactions, especially with a higher potency level (B = .07, p < .05; B = .1, p < .05). Potency moderated (B = -.02, p = .01) the effect of reluctance on posttraumatic stress symptoms. When tested on the entire sample (324) the results replicated the sub-sample (170). Adolescents revealed similar results irrespective of their exposure. The reluctance to disclose abuse is discussed from an Indian cultural and societal perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atreyee Bhattacharyya
- The Graduate School of Creative Arts Therapies and The Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Rachel Lev-Wiesel
- The Graduate School of Creative Arts Therapies and The Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Mallika Banerjee
- Department of Psychology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
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Lavoie J, Wyman J, Crossman AM, Talwar V. Meta-analysis of the effects of two interviewing practices on children's disclosures of sensitive information: Rapport practices and question type. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 113:104930. [PMID: 33454643 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.104930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE The forensic interview is an important part of the investigative process with child witnesses, and ensuring evidence-based practices is crucial to its success. This meta-analysis examined the overall effect of rapport practices and question type on children's disclosures during forensic interviews to determine (a) how large of an influence existing practices have on children's tendency to disclose information, and (b) how consistent the effect sizes of interviewing practices are across studies, given that inconsistent results have been found. METHOD A systematic review of child interviewing practices was conducted, and 35 studies met the inclusion criteria. Articles were categorized thematically according to interviewing practice. Two practices were predominantly represented in the literature and were selected for review and meta-analysis: rapport techniques, including interviewer support, (n = 9), and question type (n = 25 samples, 23 studies). Random-effects meta-analytic models were computed separately for rapport practices and question type, and moderator analyses were conducted to test for differences according to age and interviewing protocol. RESULTS Rapport techniques had a medium overall effect on children's disclosures (d = 0.55, p < .001), and was moderated by the interviewing protocol used, but not children's age. Open-ended questions compared to closed-ended questions had a medium overall effect on children's descriptions of sensitive events (d = 0.52, p < .001), and was not moderated by age or interviewing protocol. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide overarching support for the use of rapport and support, and the use of open-ended questions in forensic interviews with child witnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Lavoie
- Moray House School of Education & Sport, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Joshua Wyman
- Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, McGill University, Canada.
| | - Angela M Crossman
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, United States.
| | - Victoria Talwar
- Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, McGill University, Canada.
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42
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Popović S. Presentation of Victims in the Press Coverage of Child Sexual Abuse in Croatia. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2021; 30:230-251. [PMID: 33416041 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2020.1871459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A content analysis of Croatian daily newspapers was conducted to clarify how these media outlets present CSA victims, any correlation between the use of victim-blaming, stereotyping, and endangering practices for victims, and to determine the predictors of endangering practices while reporting on CSA victims. The analytical matrix for assessing CSA media content was developed after conducting multiple reliability tests with independent coders. After relevancy coding of CSA news stories, content analysis was conducted on a random cluster sample of 1.159 CSA pieces of news published between 2007 and 2016. A binary logistic regression was conducted in order to detect predictors of reporting practices that endanger victims. Victims presented in the news are mostly female, multiple victims, and victims' background information are in line with gender stereotypes. About one-quarter of the news stories used consensual words to describe proven CSA, 20% shifted the responsibility for the abuse onto the victims, and 15% described the victim as permanently damaged. Regarding endangering media coverage practices, 27% of the news disclose the victim's identity (mostly indirectly) while 21% of the news provide details of an abusive event. Predictors of disclosing victim's identity and providing details of an abusive event are emphasized. News reports still contribute to the stigmatization and victimization of the survivors.
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43
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Carson KW, Babad S, Brown EJ, Nikulina V. Why Do Women Talk About It? Reasons for Disclosure of Sexual Victimization and Associated Symptomology. Violence Against Women 2021; 27:3114-3135. [PMID: 33406383 DOI: 10.1177/1077801220978818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Many sexual victimization survivors disclose their experience; however, there is limited research investigating why women disclose this experience and how reasons relate to psychopathology. The current online study aims to further understand the experiences of 142 female survivors (aged 18-29 years) by identifying their reason for disclosure and investigating how reasons relate to self-reported depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomology. Qualitative analyses identified two reasons: intentional and elicited disclosures. Hierarchical linear regressions revealed that elicited disclosures were associated with higher PTSD symptomology than intentional disclosures above and beyond relevant covariates, suggesting that disclosure reason is an important factor in the recovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin Walsh Carson
- Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY, USA.,The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Sara Babad
- Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY, USA.,The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Valentina Nikulina
- Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY, USA.,The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York City, NY, USA
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44
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Gongola J, Quas JA, Clark SE, Lyon TD. Adults' difficulties in identifying concealment among children interviewed with the putative confession instructions. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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45
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Winters GM, Colombino N, Schaaf S, Laake ALW, Jeglic EL, Calkins C. Why do child sexual abuse victims not tell anyone about their abuse? An exploration of factors that prevent and promote disclosure. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2020; 38:586-611. [PMID: 33251613 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Disclosure rates of child sexual abuse (CSA) to both social supports and law enforcement are concerningly low, although more research is needed to understand factors that impact disclosure. Thus, the present study examined rates of informal (i.e., to a social support) and formal (i.e., to law enforcement) disclosure of CSA, as well as victims' self-reported experiences with telling others about their own abuse and their perceptions of the overall advantages and disadvantages of disclosure. In all, 76 undergraduate women (who collectively experienced 105 instances of abuse) participated in a semi-structured interview regarding their history of CSA. Results revealed that approximately 50% of cases involved the victim informally disclosing, and only 10% of cases being formally disclosed to authorities. The quantitative and qualitative data shed light on a number of factors that lead victims to not disclose, as well as the identification of factors that may promote a victim to share their abuse with others. The implications for improved prevention and responses to CSA disclosure are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia M Winters
- School of Psychology, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, New Jersey, USA
| | - Niki Colombino
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sarah Schaaf
- School of Psychology, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth L Jeglic
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cynthia Calkins
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, New York, USA
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46
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McElvaney R, Nixon E. Parents' Experiences of Their Child's Disclosure of Child Sexual Abuse. FAMILY PROCESS 2020; 59:1773-1788. [PMID: 31715020 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A child's disclosure of sexual victimization is a difficult experience for parents and has been associated with traumatization, disbelief, denial, self-blame, and clinical difficulties. To date, most studies on parents' responses have been quantitative assessments of the psychological impact of disclosure on parents. A paucity of research has qualitatively explored mothers' experiences of their child's disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA) and fathers' experiences have been even further neglected. The current study seeks to characterize parents' experiences of their child's disclosure of CSA and to uncover the process-oriented nature of parental responses. This qualitative study, using a grounded theory approach to analysis, involved interviews with 10 mothers and four fathers whose children (3-18 years) had experienced sexual abuse. Three themes emerged from the analysis. The first theme-making sense of the abuse in retrospect-captured the process through which parents sought to make sense of their child's disclosure, focusing on why their child had not disclosed the abuse to them earlier, and how they had noticed something was wrong but misattributed their child's behavior to other factors. The second theme-negotiating parental identity as protector-reflected how parents' identity as a protector was challenged, their perception of their world had been forever altered, and they now experienced themselves as hypervigilant and overprotective. The final theme-navigating the services-pertained to parents' struggle in navigating child protection and police services, and feelings of being isolated and alone. These findings highlight the need for empathy and parental support following child disclosure of sexual victimization.
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47
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Okur P, van der Knaap LM, Bogaerts S. A Quantitative Study on Gender Differences in Disclosing Child Sexual Abuse and Reasons for Nondisclosure. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2020; 35:5255-5275. [PMID: 29294841 DOI: 10.1177/0886260517720732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the available literature on disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA), little is known about how gender affects disclosure. This article aims to quantitatively examine whether gender differences exist in formal (to legal or child protection authorities) and informal (to a family member or friend) disclosure of CSA and, if so, to assess whether this relation is associated with abuse characteristics and attitudes toward gender roles. The study also aimed to examine whether gender differences exist in reasons not to disclose CSA. Data of a sample of 586 participants, who reported to have experienced CSA committed by a single person, have been used for the analyses. There were no gender differences for formal disclosure, but the informal disclosure rate of CSA was 2.4 times higher for women than men, and this effect remained significant after controlling for abuse characteristics and attitudes, even though the gender difference decreased slightly. Furthermore, women and men reported different reasons for not disclosing CSA in their personal network. Women were more worried than men that family and friends would discover the abuse and reported more insecurity of what to do in this situation. Professionals in the field of CSA should consider a gender perspective when developing guidelines. Men have rarely been the subject of studies of disclosure after CSA. Professionals should focus more on general mental health outcomes of men that are not related with CSA directly, but where the effects of CSA may exert more indirectly through associations with other problems in life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefan Bogaerts
- Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- FPC De Kijvelanden, Rhoon, The Netherlands
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48
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Urbann K, Bienstein P, Kaul T. The Evidence-Based Sexual Abuse Prevention Program: Strong With Sam. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2020; 25:421-429. [PMID: 32696964 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The present study was initiated to design and evaluate a sexual abuse prevention program for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. This evidence-based prevention program is the first of its kind for DHH children. A total of 92 DHH children aged 8-12 years participated in the program "STARK mit SAM" (Strong with Sam, SmS), a program conducted in primary schools for DHH children in Germany. The program evaluation consisted of a pretest-posttest design. As per class, the subjects were assigned to either the experimental or the wait list control group. Participants from both groups were pretested for their knowledge about content related to the prevention of sexual abuse. The experimental group received the prevention program and both groups were posttested to examine the effects of the program. Additionally, the experimental group was tested again 6 months after the program. DHH children who participated in the SmS program showed a significant knowledge gain and a nonsignificant change in their anxiety. No significant factor affecting the children's significant knowledge gain was found. SmS is an effective sexual abuse prevention program for DHH children, which can be offered without incurring anxiety in the children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Urbann
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Education and Rehabilitation of the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing, University of Cologne
| | - Pia Bienstein
- TU Dortmund University, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Rehabilitation and Education: Intellectual Disabilities
| | - Thomas Kaul
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Education and Rehabilitation of the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing, University of Cologne
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Wallis CRD, Woodworth MD. Child sexual abuse: An examination of individual and abuse characteristics that may impact delays of disclosure. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 107:104604. [PMID: 32544699 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nondisclosure in cases of child sexual abuse (CSA) can lead to numerous aversive outcomes for children who have been sexually abused, the most serious of which include untreated psychological symptoms and possible further abuse. While victim testimony is often required for perpetrator conviction or disruption of contact, children face multiple barriers to reporting abuse. Research suggests the likelihood of disclosure is impacted by both characteristics of children (i.e., age and gender), as well as abuse characteristics (i.e., relation to perpetrator, severity and frequency of abuse). OBJECTIVE Although these factors have been studied in relation to rates of disclosure, relatively little is known about their impact on temporal delays in reporting CSA. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Special access was obtained to review classified RCMP case files on CSA drawn from the greater Okanagan area, British Columbia, Canada (n = 164). METHODS Cases were coded according to victim and abuse characteristics. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was used in order to analyze the impact each variable of interest had on time until a disclosure was made. RESULTS All predictors were found to significantly impact delays of disclosure, x2(6) = 65.558, p = .000. Delays of disclosure were decreased as age of the child increased or if the child was female. Alternatively, if abuse was more severe, occurred at a higher frequency, or if perpetrators were more closely related, delays of disclosure increased. CONCLUSIONS The current study provides potential for tailored approaches according to individual characteristics and vulnerabilities in CSA investigations and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassidy R D Wallis
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Canada.
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50
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Disclosure, reporting and help seeking among child survivors of violence: a cross-country analysis. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1051. [PMID: 32616007 PMCID: PMC7331131 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Violence against children is a pervasive public health issue, with limited data available across multiple contexts. This study explores the rarely studied prevalence and dynamics around disclosure, reporting and help-seeking behaviours of children who ever experienced physical and/or sexual violence. METHODS Using nationally-representative Violence Against Children Surveys in six countries: Cambodia, Haiti, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Tanzania, we present descriptive statistics for prevalence of four outcomes among children aged 13-17 years: informal disclosure, knowledge of where to seek formal help, formal disclosure/help seeking and receipt of formal help. We ran country-specific multivariate logistic regressions predicting outcomes on factors at the individual, household and community levels. RESULTS The prevalence of help-seeking behaviours ranged from 23 to 54% for informal disclosure, 16 to 28% for knowledge of where to seek formal help, under 1 to 25% for formal disclosure or help seeking, and 1 to 11% for receipt of formal help. Factors consistently correlated with promoting help-seeking behaviours included household number of adult females and absence of biological father, while those correlated with reduced help-seeking behaviours included being male and living in a female-headed household. Primary reasons for not seeking help varied by country, including self-blame, apathy and not needing or wanting services. CONCLUSIONS Across countries examined, help-seeking and receipt of formal services is low for children experiencing physical and/or sexual violence, with few consistent factors identified which facilitated help-seeking. Further understanding of help seeking, alongside improved data quality and availability will aid prevention responses, including the ability to assist child survivors in a timely manner.
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