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Ifayomi M, Ali P, Ellis K. Child Sexual Abuse in Nigeria: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024:15248380241254077. [PMID: 38812418 DOI: 10.1177/15248380241254077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a major social and public health issue that creates short- and long-lasting impacts on victims, families, and society. While global researchers have considered the topic of CSA since the 19th century, the Nigerian context has been largely ignored. Yet, without sufficient evidence and understanding, making changes to practices and policies becomes almost impossible. The review aimed to gain insights into the nature and extent of CSA and identify areas for improvement in practice and research in Nigeria. This article presents the findings of a systematic review of 31 empirical articles related to CSA in Nigeria. Using key search terms along Boolean operators and truncation, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ASSIA, PILOTS, African Journals Online, and Google Scholar were searched. A total of 1,325 studies were found, and 31 empirical studies, including 20 quantitative, 9 qualitative, and 2 mixed methods studies, were included. The review findings reveal the discourse on CSA and delve into various aspects such as its prevalence, manifestation patterns, root causes, management, and consequential impact on victims and societal domains. The gaps in the existing literature are identified and explored to identify areas for improvement in victim services, societal awareness, and healthcare practices and relevant policies. The sociocultural norms not only heightened children's vulnerability to sexual abuse but also posed significant barriers to them disclosing such abuse. Survivors of CSA often receive inadequate care, indicating a pressing need for improvements in this area. Implications for research, policy, and conclusion were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Parveen Ali
- University of Sheffield, UK
- Sheffield University Interpersonal Violence Research Group, UK
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Orak OS, Bayrak NG, Emirza EG. "Silent screams": Family perceptions in the drawings of incest victim children. J Pediatr Nurs 2023; 73:e624-e631. [PMID: 37968196 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2023.11.008] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to examine the family perceptions in the drawings of children exposed to incest. DESIGN AND METHODS This qualitative research involved 25 child survivors of incest, all of whom were examined and subjected to forensic interviews at a facility in northern Türkiye specializing in cases of child sexual abuse. The data were collected using the "Child and Family Descriptive Information Form", the "Abuser Descriptive Information Form", the "Family Drawing Test", and the "Semi-structured Interview Form". RESULTS The children's drawings were subjected to a projective analysis, leading to the identification of three key themes: the distress of confronting incest; unbalanced power and role allocation in the family; and dysfunctional family dynamics.". These themes were discerned by examining the connections and coherence between the categories. CONCLUSION It is concluded in the study that who are exposed to incest perceived a trauma experience that affected the whole family, perceived unbalanced power and role allocation in the family with authoritarian-aggressive and submissive-oppressed roles, and had negative perceptions of family dynamics such as emotional ties, family integrity, and social interaction. IMPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE This study emphasizes the need to restructure the issues of familial trauma, power and role imbalance, and unmet needs within the family while planning for trauma in nursing approaches to children who are victims of incest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oya Sevcan Orak
- Ondokuz Mayıs University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing/Psychiatric Nursing, Turkey.
| | - Nurten Gülsüm Bayrak
- Giresun University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing/Psychiatric Nursing, Turkey
| | - Elif Güzide Emirza
- Ondokuz Mayıs University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing/Psychiatric Nursing, Turkey
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GÜNDOĞDU V, ERKOL Z, HÖSÜKLER E, SAMURCU H, BÜKEN B. Cinsel Saldırı - İstismar Olguları Üzerine Retrospektif Bir Çalışma. KONURALP TIP DERGISI 2022. [DOI: 10.18521/ktd.1136521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objective: In this study; it is aimed to analyze the sexual attack-abuse cases that occurred in Bolu province and were judged by the High Criminal Court.
Methods: A total of 148 cases of sexual assault - abuse decided by the Bolu High Criminal Court between 2007 and 2016 were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: This study included 148 cases: 131 (88.5%) cases were female and 17 (11.5%) were male. The mean age was 18.6 ± 11.6 (min:4, max:83). The highest number of cases was in the 13-15 age group (n=52, 35.2%). Sexual abuse most frequently occurred through vaginal penetration (n=72: 48.6%). The most common psychiatric diagnosis was acute stress disorder (n:12, 10.8%) and post-traumatic stress disorder (n:12, 10.8%). Physical violence was found to be statistically effective (p = 0.008) in the occurrence of mental disorders after the event. The victim recognized 81.8% of the attacker.
Conclusion: We think that more effective sexual attack-abuse prevention strategies can be developed at the national level by determining the risk factors of sexual assault-abuse in our country through wider research to be conducted across the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veyis GÜNDOĞDU
- Aydın Forensic Medicine Branch Office, Council Of Forensic Medicine
| | - Zerrin ERKOL
- ABANT IZZET BAYSAL UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF FORENSIC MEDICINE
| | - Erdem HÖSÜKLER
- ABANT IZZET BAYSAL UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF FORENSIC MEDICINE
| | - Hakan SAMURCU
- Kayseri Forensic Medicine Branch Office, Council Of Forensic Medicine
| | - Bora BÜKEN
- DUZCE UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF FORENSIC MEDICINE
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Long M, Huang J, Peng Y, Mai Y, Yuan X, Yang X. The Short- and Long-Term Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Child Maltreatment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063350. [PMID: 35329040 PMCID: PMC8954178 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new threat to child health and safety. Some studies suggest that social isolation and economic stress have exacerbated child abuse and neglect, whereas other studies argue that orders to stay at home are likely to promote parent–child relationships during this stressful time. Due to a lack of prospective studies including before–during–after lockdown assessments, the impacts of lockdown measures on child maltreatment are unclear. Methods: This study retrospectively investigated child maltreatment of 2821 Chinese children and adolescents from 12 to 18 (female, 59%) before, during and after lockdown, and identified risk factors. Potential predictors including socio-economic and individual mental health status were collected. Results: During Chinese lockdown, children and adolescents reported that the proportions of decrease (range 18–47.5%) in emotional abuse and neglect, physical abuse and neglect, sexual abuse, and witnessing domestic violence were greater than that of increase (range 5.1–9.1%). Compared with before lockdown (1.6%), the prevalence of sexual abuse significantly increased 8 months (2.9%) after the lifting of lockdown (p = 0.002). Being male, suffering from depression, state anhedonia, and experiencing psychotic symptoms at baseline were associated with increased sexual abuse after lockdown. Conclusions: The impact of lockdown on child maltreatment was beneficial in the short-term but detrimental in the long-term in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqing Long
- Department of Psychology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China;
| | - Jia Huang
- Neuropsychology and Applied Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China;
- Department of Psychology, The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yishun Peng
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China; (Y.P.); (Y.M.); (X.Y.)
| | - Yawen Mai
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China; (Y.P.); (Y.M.); (X.Y.)
| | - Xian Yuan
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China; (Y.P.); (Y.M.); (X.Y.)
| | - Xinhua Yang
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China; (Y.P.); (Y.M.); (X.Y.)
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-21-5219-2911
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Epidemiology of Child Maltreatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9030312. [PMID: 35327683 PMCID: PMC8947060 DOI: 10.3390/children9030312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Child maltreatment, especially during health crises, is a major public health issue transcending cultural, social, and racial contexts. We assessed the sociodemographic and related risk factors associated with the types and rates of child maltreatment. We also assessed the economic, social, and environmental characteristics of child maltreatment victims and their perpetrators, as they were reported to the Saudi National Family Safety Program (NFSP), with consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact. A secondary data analysis of a retrospective review was conducted to compare types and rates before and during the COVID-19 outbreak, utilizing descriptive and multivariate analyses on anonymized data from the NFSP. According to a predetermined list of relevant risk factors for child maltreatment outlined by the NFSP, these anonymized data were obtained and analyzed with no exclusion criteria (n = 1304). The findings showed that a child’s age correlated significantly and positively with their odds of being physically maltreated; as a child’s age increased by one year, on average, their corresponding predicted odds of being physically maltreatment tended to rise by a factor equal to 7.6% (p < 0.001). Neglected children, compared to those who had not been previously neglected, were predicted to be almost twice (2.23 times more) as likely to be victims of physical maltreatment on average (p < 0.001). Children were notably more likely to experience sexual abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic than those exposed to abuse during the period before (1.69 times). The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with significantly lower odds of physical child maltreatment (47.7% less). This study found no statistically significant effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s odds of being emotionally maltreated (p = 0.169). These findings support the existence of specific risk factors for child maltreatment for both child victims and perpetrators. They also attest to the significant differences between different types of maltreatment. A systematic, proactive system is needed to screen and document child maltreatment with a higher degree of integration with community reporting systems.
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Guastaferro K, Felt JM, Font SA, Connell CM, Miyamoto S, Zadzora KM, Noll JG. Parent-Focused Sexual Abuse Prevention: Results From a Cluster Randomized Trial. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2022; 27:114-125. [PMID: 33025835 PMCID: PMC8024425 DOI: 10.1177/1077559520963870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This study tested whether a child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention program, Smart Parents-Safe and Healthy Kids (SPSHK), could be implemented as an additional module in evidence-based parent training and whether the added module might detract from the efficacy of the original program. In a cluster randomized trial, six community-based organizations were randomized to deliver Parents as Teachers (PAT) with SPSHK (PAT+SPSHK) or PAT as usual (PAT-AU). CSA-related awareness and protective behaviors, as well as general parenting behaviors taught by PAT were assessed at baseline, post-PAT, post-SPSHK, and 1-month follow-up. Multilevel analyses revealed significant group by time interactions for both awareness and behaviors (ps < .0001), indicating the PAT+SPSHK group had significantly greater awareness of CSA and used protective behaviors more often (which were maintained at follow-up) compared to the PAT-AU group. No differences were observed in general parenting behaviors taught by PAT suggesting adding SPHSK did not interfere with PAT efficacy as originally designed. Results indicate adding SPHSK to existing parent training can significantly enhance parents' awareness of and readiness to engage in protective behavioral strategies. Implementing SPHSK as a selective prevention strategy with at-risk parents receiving parent training through child welfare infrastructures is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John M. Felt
- The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
| | - Sarah A. Font
- The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jennie G. Noll
- The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
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Richter P, Bartels MB, Kieslich M. [Diagnostics and Significance Evaluation in Cases of Suspected Child Sexual Assault - An Analysis of 210 Cases]. KLINISCHE PADIATRIE 2021; 233:237-245. [PMID: 34374060 DOI: 10.1055/a-1516-5913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child sexual abuse is difficult to diagnose in children and it is a challenging task for all involved medical disciplines of a medical child protection unit. The present study describes the factors that led patients to be presented to a child protection unit under the suspicion of sexual abuse and the diagnostic instruments which were used in order to substantiate or prove suspicious fact. PATIENTS AND METHOD This study was conducted retrospectively on the basis of 210 children and adolescents ranged in age between 4 months and 18 years, who were presented to the medical child protection unit of Frankfurt am Main with suspected sexual abuse in the period from 2010 to 2015. 173 cases were analyzed in more detail. The cases were analyzed with the help of standardized documentation sheet and suspicious facts were evaluated with regard to their significance. RESULTS A total of 173 patient records were analyzed in more detail containing cases of suspected child sexual abuse. The majority of the children and teenager were female and younger than 10. Often the father was accused of sexual abuse and parents were separated or in custody battle. The patient's statements were crucial for substantiation of suspicious fact in 60% of the cases. The assessment was more certain if the alleged perpetrator was not part of the close family and if other forms of physical violence were associated. CONCLUSION The study shows that gynecological respectively anogenital findings do not represent the key evidence for the substantiation of sexual abuse allegations. Instead, it underlines the significance of further diagnostic methods, in particular the psychological and anamnestic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Richter
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Children's Hospital, Goethe-Universitat Frankfurt am Main Fachbereich 16 Medizin, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland
| | - Marco Baz Bartels
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Children's Hospital, Goethe-Universitat Frankfurt am Main Fachbereich 16 Medizin, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Kieslich
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Children's Hospital, Goethe-Universitat Frankfurt am Main Fachbereich 16 Medizin, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland
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Abstract
Sexual violence against children is a gross violation of children's rights during their formative years and will likely interfere with their developmental trajectory and long-term quality of life. As a result, this form of violence includes commercial sexual exploitation of children, sexual abuse, child marriages, and female genital mutilation. The evidence shows that violence prevention is worth the investment; however, prioritizing this agenda to ensure funding through government spending remains low. Despite funding realities, research and advocacy efforts need to continue, with a focus on promoting effective practices for mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Walker-Descartes
- Department of Medical Education-Pediatrics, Maimonides Children's Hospital of Brooklyn, 4802 Tenth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219, USA.
| | - Gillian Hopgood
- Department of Medical Education-Pediatrics, Maimonides Children's Hospital of Brooklyn, 4802 Tenth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219, USA
| | - Luisa Vaca Condado
- Department of Medical Education-Pediatrics, Maimonides Children's Hospital of Brooklyn, 4802 Tenth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219, USA
| | - Lori Legano
- Department of Pediatrics, Bellevue Hospital Center, 462 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Wong WHS, Kuo WH, Sobolewski C, Bhatia I, Ip P. The Association Between Child Abuse and Attempted Suicide. CRISIS 2019; 41:196-204. [PMID: 31512939 PMCID: PMC8208292 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Abstract.Background: Child abuse and suicide among the young population
is a serious and prevalent problem. Many studies have demonstrated that people with adverse
childhood experiences, such as child abuse, are likely to develop suicidal behavior. This
study evaluates the connection between child abuse and suicidal behavior in the Hong Kong
community where incidents of child abuse have been on the rise over the past decade. Aims:
To determine the association between child abuse and attempted suicide in the child
population of Hong Kong using hospital electronic medical records system. Method: From
January 1, 1995 to July 31, 2016, patients with admission age < 18 years with the
diagnosis of child abuse or influenza infection (comparison group) were included in this
study (n = 54,256). In secondary data analysis, an association was found between children
who had experienced child abuse and the outcome measure of hospital admission for attempted
suicide compared with influenza infection. Results: The adjusted hazard ratio of attempting
suicide in children who experienced sexual abuse and physical abuse compared with the
influenza-infected group was 6.48 (95% CI [4.56, 9.19]) and 4.83 (95% CI [3.67, 6.34]). The
age at onset of adverse incidents was negatively associated with the attempted suicide
timing. Female patients had a 1.64 higher risk of repeating attempted suicide. In addition,
nearly 5% of children who had experienced child abuse attempted suicide in the 10 years
after their admission, and more than 36% of patients had a record of repeated suicide
attempt in the 20 years after the initial admission. Limitations: The accuracy of the
diagnosis, selection bias, insufficiency of study period, Berkson's bias, incomplete
socioeconomic status, as well as the absence of psychiatric diagnosis are the limitations.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that there is a significant association between child abuse
and suicide attempts in Hong Kong. If confirmed, the study (a) demonstrates that hospital
admission records are a critical source for identifying children with a high risk for
suicidal behavior; (b) may inform policy makers that additional and long-term intervention
programs should be provided to children so as to reduce subsequent suicide attempts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfred Hing-Sang Wong
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, PR China.,Department of Public Health Science, Walden University, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Wen-Hung Kuo
- Department of Public Health Science, Walden University, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Curt Sobolewski
- Department of Public Health Science, Walden University, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Inderjeet Bhatia
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Patrick Ip
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
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van der Kooij IW, Bipat S, Nieuwendam J, Lindauer RJL, Graafsma TLG. The Prevalence of Sexual Abuse in Adolescence in Suriname. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2019; 28:435-451. [PMID: 30412454 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2018.1538176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Studies conducted to ascertain the prevalence of child sexual abuse (CSA) in the Caribbean are poorly synthesized. Present study reports on the lifetime and year prevalence of unwanted sexual experiences, the risk of CSA at different ages within adolescence, and differences between the three largest ethnic groups in Suriname. One thousand one hundred and twenty (1,120) adolescents completed a questionnaire on child maltreatment, including CSA. The study's stratified sample consisted of students (ages 12 to 17) from five districts in Suriname. More than 16% of all boys and 15% of all girls indicated that they had been exposed to some form of CSA in the past 12 months. Girls reported significantly more intrafamilial CSA by a minor than boys. Boys reported significantly more experiences of being touched or forced by a minor outside the family to look at/touch the abuser's private parts than girls. Besides, 16 and 17-year olds were the most vulnerable. An increased risk of CSA (year prevalence) was found as adolescence progresses. A significant portion of CSA constituted peer-to-peer sexual victimization. Afro Surinamese adolescents were found to report the highest rates of CSA. Appropriate legislation, policies, and services for prevention and recovery are needed in Suriname.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger W van der Kooij
- a Academic Medical Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , the Netherlands
| | - Shandra Bipat
- a Academic Medical Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , the Netherlands
| | - Josta Nieuwendam
- b Institute for Graduate Studies and Research, Anton de Kom University , Paramaribo , Suriname
| | - Ramón J L Lindauer
- a Academic Medical Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , the Netherlands
- c The Bascule, Academic Center for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , Amsterdam , the Netherlands
| | - Tobi L G Graafsma
- b Institute for Graduate Studies and Research, Anton de Kom University , Paramaribo , Suriname
- c The Bascule, Academic Center for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , Amsterdam , the Netherlands
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Rudolph J, Zimmer-Gembeck MJ. Reviewing the Focus: A Summary and Critique of Child-Focused Sexual Abuse Prevention. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2018; 19:543-554. [PMID: 27789611 DOI: 10.1177/1524838016675478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Due to the high incidence, and widespread detrimental health consequences, of child sexual abuse (CSA), effective prevention remains at the forefront of public and mental health research, prevention and intervention agendas. To date much of the focus of prevention has been on school-based education programs designed to teach children skills to evade adult sexual advances, and disclose past or ongoing abuse. Evaluation of sexual abuse prevention programs demonstrate their effectiveness in increasing children's knowledge of CSA concepts and protection skills, but little is known about their effects on children's capacity to prevent abuse. Moreover, concerns persist about the unintended side-effects for young children such as anxiety, worry and wariness of touch. This paper summarizes the recent history of CSA prevention and the critique of child-focused protection programs in order to demonstrate the need to compliment or replace these programs by focusing more on protectors in the children's ecology, specifically parents, in order to create safer environments in which abuse is less likely to occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rudolph
- 1 School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- 2 Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Melanie J Zimmer-Gembeck
- 1 School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- 2 Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
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Franklin A, Brown S, Brady G. The Use of Tools and Checklists to Assess the Risk of Child Sexual Exploitation: Lessons from UK Practice. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2018; 27:978-997. [PMID: 30481140 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2018.1510453] [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: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Tools to assess the risk of becoming a victim of child sexual exploitation (CSE) have been developed by UK CSE practitioners based on their professional experiences, with little evidence underpinning their development, and no evaluation/validation. Little is known about how they are used in practice. This paper summarizes two studies. The first study consisted of a rapid review to identify factors associated with increased or decreased risk of vulnerability to becoming a victim of CSE and the assessment of 10 tools being used in the UK. The second study undertook interviews and online survey with professionals across multi-agencies to establish the use of tools. Results illustrate the context and processes in which the tools are being used and identify concerns regarding their ability to identify and protect children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Franklin
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences , Coventry University , Coventry , UK
| | - Sarah Brown
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences , Coventry University , Coventry , UK
| | - Geraldine Brady
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences , Coventry University , Coventry , UK
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Usta MB, Akbaş S, Aydın B. Behavioural problems associated with child sexual abuse in adolescents; a case-control study. KONURALP TIP DERGISI 2018. [DOI: 10.18521/ktd.382121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Rudolph J, Zimmer-Gembeck MJ, Shanley DC, Walsh K, Hawkins R. Parental Discussion of Child Sexual Abuse: Is It Associated with the Parenting Practices of Involvement, Monitoring, and General Communication? JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2018; 27:195-216. [PMID: 29494794 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2018.1425946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We investigated whether parents who reported more positive parenting practices (i.e., monitoring, involvement, and communication) reported more discussion of child sexual abuse (CSA) with their children. Parents from Australia and the UK (N = 248), with children aged 6 to 11 years, completed an online survey. About half of parents reported directly discussing CSA, whereas 35% reported telling their children that CSA perpetrators may be family members. Rates of discussion were higher for other CSA-related topics such as body integrity and abduction. Correlational analyses showed that parents who reported speaking to their children about CSA also reported more positive parenting practices, more discussion of other sensitive topics, and assessed CSA risk for children (in general) to be higher. Discussion of CSA risk was not associated with parents' CSA knowledge, confidence or appraisal of own-child risk. Parents higher in positive parenting believed their children to be at less CSA risk. Parents who appraised higher own-child risk reported less positive parenting practices and were less confident about their parenting and their ability to protect their children from CSA. The findings are the first to report on the associations of parenting practices with parents' CSA discussion with their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rudolph
- a School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University , Gold Coast , Australia
| | - Melanie J Zimmer-Gembeck
- a School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University , Gold Coast , Australia
| | - Dianne C Shanley
- a School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University , Gold Coast , Australia
| | - Kerrryann Walsh
- b Faculty of Education , QLD University of Technology , Brisbane , Australia
| | - Russell Hawkins
- c Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences , James Cook University , Cairns , Australia
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Rudolph J, Zimmer-Gembeck MJ, Shanley DC, Hawkins R. Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Opportunities: Parenting, Programs, and the Reduction of Risk. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2018; 23:96-106. [PMID: 28920456 DOI: 10.1177/1077559517729479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
To date, child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention has relied largely on child-focused education, teaching children how to identify, avoid, and disclose sexual abuse. The purpose of this article is to explore how prevention opportunities can include parents in new and innovative ways. We propose that parents can play a significant role as protectors of their children via two pathways: (i) directly, through the strong external barriers afforded by parent supervision, monitoring, and involvement; and (ii) indirectly, by promoting their children's self-efficacy, competence, well-being, and self-esteem, which the balance of evidence suggests will help them become less likely targets for abuse and more able to respond appropriately and disclose abuse if it occurs. In this article, we first describe why teaching young children about CSA protective behaviors might not be sufficient for prevention. We then narratively review the existing research on parents and prevention and the parenting and family circumstances that may increase a child's risk of experiencing sexual abuse. Finally, we make a number of recommendations for future approaches to prevention that may better inform and involve parents and other adult protectors in preventing CSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rudolph
- 1 School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- 2 Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Melanie J Zimmer-Gembeck
- 1 School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- 2 Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dianne C Shanley
- 1 School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- 2 Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Russell Hawkins
- 3 College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
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Güven ŞT, Dalgiç Aİ, Erkol Z. Emotional and Psychosocial Problems Encountered by Children Who Have Been Sexually Abused. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2018; 56:37-43. [PMID: 28990638 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20170929-04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The current descriptive analysis sought to identify the emotional and psychosocial problems experienced by children who have been sexually abused. Of 518 children with a history of sexual abuse who applied to the Child Protection Center, 443 were included in the study. Approximately 71.6% of children were subject to sexual abuse entailing penetration, whereas 69% were subject to sexual abuse not entailing penetration. After-effects reported included despair (46.5%), fear of reoccurrence of the incident (52.8%), distrust of others (36.8%), difficulty sleeping (32.7%), negative expectations about the future (32.1%), and self-blame (31.1%). Nurses have crucial roles and functions in the protection, improvement, treatment, and rehabilitation of the health of children who have been sexually abused. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(2), 37-43.].
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Hornor G, Zeno R. Child Sexual Abuse Perpetrators: What Forensic Nurses Need to Know. JOURNAL OF FORENSIC NURSING 2018; 14:206-213. [PMID: 30433909 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0000000000000222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Child sexual abuse is a problem of epidemic proportions resulting in lifelong physical and mental health consequences for victims. Most child sexual abuse victims never disclose and do not receive needed treatment. Clearly, pediatric healthcare providers must understand the dynamics of child sexual abuse to better identify and protect potential victims. Forensic nurses are at the forefront of caring for victims of sexual abuse and are strong voices in the education of parents, community members, and other healthcare professionals regarding sexual abuse. Forensic nurses with a deeper understanding of child sexual abuse perpetrators will be better able to educate the public and advocate for children at risk for sexual abuse. In this article, specific types of child sexual abuse perpetration will be explored, and implications for forensic nursing will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail Hornor
- Center for Family Safety and Healing, Nationwide Children's Hospital
| | - Rosie Zeno
- The Ohio State University, Nationwide Children's Hospital
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Butun C, Yildirim A, Ozer E, Yilmaz E, Sari SA. A Nonrandom Sample of 55 Sexual Abuse Cases in Sivas. Med Sci Monit 2017; 23:4360-4365. [PMID: 28889143 PMCID: PMC5604486 DOI: 10.12659/msm.905591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual abuse in childhood is a significant public health problem because of the destructive results both to the individual and to the community. The aim of this study was to examine the sociodemographic characteristics of children who were victims of sexual abuse, the relationship of the victim and abuser, and the findings of sexual abuse. MATERIAL AND METHODS An examination was made of the results of forensic medicine and psychiatric evaluations of child victims of sexual abuse. The sociodemographic characteristics of the cases and the characteristics of the incidents of sexual abuse were evaluated at the Forensic Medicine Department of Cumhuriyet University between 2013 and 2016. RESULTS A total of 55 cases were included in the study, comprising eight males (14.5%) and 47 females (85.5%) in the age range of 5-17 years. The vast majority of the cases were high school students. The place of the abuse incident was the home of the victim or the perpetrator in 29 cases (52.7%). The sexual abuse was determined to be bodily penetration in 32 cases (58.1%). In 32 cases (58.1%), the perpetrator was known to the victim. CONCLUSIONS The study findings that the perpetrator of the sexual abuse was known to the child, that predominantly female children were attacked, and the low sociocultural level of the cases were consistent with other studies reported in the literature. To prevent sexual abuse of children, to make an early diagnosis, and to provide rehabilitation for the abused children, it is essential that the evaluations of these cases are made using a professional multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celal Butun
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ali Yildirim
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Erdal Ozer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Eda Yilmaz
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Seda Aybuke Sari
- Department of Child and Adolescant Psychiatry, Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
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Morgan L, Khadr S, Bewley S. Child sexual assault reported to an acute sexual assault referral centre in London. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:165-169. [PMID: 27737838 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2016-311121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe demographic and assault-related characteristics of children attending an acute sexual assault referral centre in London within a week of alleged sexual assault. DESIGN Retrospective case note review of all children aged 12 years and under who reported between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2013. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Age, sex, ethnicity, drugs and alcohol around the time of assault, nature of offence, relationship with perpetrator, additional violence, verbal threats, presence of injury. RESULTS 176 children attended; 80% were female. Perpetrators were known casually to the victim in almost half of cases (49%) and familial assault was reported in 55 cases (31%). 43% of boys and 28% of girls reported that the perpetrator was under the age of 16 years. Familial domestic violence was reported by 17%, and more boys (26%) than girls (14%) were reported to have a learning difficulty. Extragenital injury was found in 14% and anogenital injury in 17%. CONCLUSIONS This study provides an important overview of young children referred for forensic medical examination in the week following an allegation of sexual assault. Rates of learning difficulty and domestic violence were relatively high, and alcohol and drug use was rare. A large number of alleged perpetrators were young themselves. Additional violence was not common, and rates of injury were low. There may be important differences in sexual offences against boys and girls. Further research is necessary, as is greater case identification and referral for services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Morgan
- The Havens Sexual Assault Referral Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sophie Khadr
- The Havens Sexual Assault Referral Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Population, Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Susan Bewley
- The Havens Sexual Assault Referral Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Women's Health Academic Centre, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
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Abajobir AA, Kisely S, Maravilla JC, Williams G, Najman JM. Gender differences in the association between childhood sexual abuse and risky sexual behaviours: A systematic review and meta-analysis. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2017; 63:249-260. [PMID: 27908449 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2016.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
This meta-analytic review examines the association between childhood sexual abuse and risky sexual behaviours with sub-group analyses by gender. Systematic searches of electronic databases including MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO were performed using key terms. We used a priori criteria to include high quality studies and control for heterogeneities across eligible studies. The review was registered with PROSPERO and used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The final meta-analysis applied fixed-effects model to generate pooled odds ratio (OR). Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify potential methodological moderators. The meta-analysis included 8 eligible studies (N=38,989, females=53.1%). The overall syndemic of risky sexual behaviors at adulthood was 1.59 times more common in childhood sexual abuse victims. There was a similar association between childhood sexual abuse in general and subsequent risky sexual behaviors in both females and males. However, in cases of substantiated childhood sexual abuse, there was a greater odds of risky sexual behaviors in females (OR=2.72) than males (OR=1.69). The magnitude of association of childhood sexual abuse and risky sexual behaviors was similar for males and females regardless of study time, study quality score and method of childhood sexual abuse measurement. There were nonsignificant overall and subgroup differences between males and females. Childhood sexual abuse is a significant risk factor for a syndemic of risky sexual behaviors and the magnitude is similar both in females and males. More research is needed to explore possible mechanisms of association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanuel Alemu Abajobir
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Public Health Building, Herston, 4006, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Steve Kisely
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, 199 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba 4102, Queensland, Australia; Departments of Psychiatry, Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Canada
| | - Joemer Calderon Maravilla
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Public Health Building, Herston, 4006, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gail Williams
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Public Health Building, Herston, 4006, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jake Moses Najman
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Public Health Building, Herston, 4006, Queensland, Australia; School of Social Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia 4072 Queensland, Australia; Queensland Alcohol and Drug Research and Education Centre, The University of Queensland, Herston, 4006, Queensland, Australia
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Hornor G, Fischer BA. Child Sexual Abuse Revictimization: Child Demographics, Familial Psychosocial Factors, and Sexual Abuse Case Characteristics. JOURNAL OF FORENSIC NURSING 2016; 12:151-159. [PMID: 27749623 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0000000000000124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purposes of this study were to describe child demographics, familial psychosocial factors, and sexual abuse case characteristics in children experiencing sexual abuse revictimization before the age of 18 years, and to compare them with children not identified as experiencing revictimization. METHOD A retrospective chart review was conducted from both the revictimization group and the one-assessment group and reviewed for child sexual abuse case characteristics, familial psychosocial characteristics, and child demographic information. RESULTS Children in the revictimization group were younger and more likely to possess a developmental delay and mental health diagnosis when compared with children in the one-assessment group. Higher proportions of parents in the one-assessment group were supportive and believed their child's sexual abuse allegation when compared with parents of the revictimization group. Families in the revictimization group were more likely to report multiple psychosocial risk factors when compared with the one-assessment group, including domestic violence, substance abuse concerns, mental health, parental history of sexual abuse, and financial concerns. DISCUSSION This study suggests that children most at risk for sexual abuse revictimization often present with multiple familial psychosocial concerns and have parents/caregivers who are not supportive of them or their sexual abuse allegations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail Hornor
- Author Affiliations: Center for Family Safety and Healing, Nationwide Children's Hospital
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Aydin B, Akbas S, Turla A, Dundar C, Yuce M, Karabekiroglu K. Child Sexual Abuse in Turkey: An Analysis of 1002 Cases. J Forensic Sci 2014; 60:61-5. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Revised: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Berna Aydin
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Faculty of Medicine; Ondokuz Mayis University; Atakum/Samsun 55139-Turkey
| | - Seher Akbas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Faculty of Medicine; Ondokuz Mayis University; Atakum/Samsun 55139-Turkey
| | - Ahmet Turla
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Faculty of Medicine; Ondokuz Mayis University; Atakum/Samsun 55139-Turkey
| | - Cihad Dundar
- Department of Public Health; Faculty of Medicine; Ondokuz Mayis University; Atakum/Samsun 55139-Turkey
| | - Murat Yuce
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Faculty of Medicine; Ondokuz Mayis University; Atakum/Samsun 55139-Turkey
| | - Koray Karabekiroglu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Faculty of Medicine; Ondokuz Mayis University; Atakum/Samsun 55139-Turkey
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Abstract
This article begins by defining sexual abuse, and reviews the literature on the epidemiology of child sexual abuse (CSA). Clinical outcomes of CSA are described, including health and mental health. An outline is given of all the services often involved after an incident of CSA, and the need for coordination among them. Treatment strategies and evidence-based recommendations are reviewed. Challenges around dissemination and implementation, cultural considerations, and familial dynamics are described. Possible future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Murray
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, 8th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Amanda Nguyen
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, 8th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Judith A Cohen
- Center for Traumatic Stress in Children and Adolescents, Allegheny General Hospital, Drexel University College of Medicine, 4 Allegheny Center, 8th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
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