1
|
Emmerich OLM, Wagner B, Heinrichs N, van Noort BM. Lifetime victimization experiences, depressiveness, suicidality, and feelings of loneliness in youth in care. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 154:106870. [PMID: 38823332 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has demonstrated the damaging effects of poly-victimization on the mental health of children and adolescents. However, few studies have been conducted in high-risk youth in care (Y-IC) samples. OBJECTIVE The study examines the frequency of lifetime victimization and the association of poly-victimization and victimization types on depressiveness, suicidality, and feelings of loneliness among Y-IC. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING 164 participants aged 14 and 21 years (M = 17.39, SD = 1.95), who live in family-based care or residential care. METHODS The Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire (JVQ) was used to assess lifetime victimization. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Loneliness Scale-SOEP (LS-S) to measure depressiveness, suicidality, and loneliness. Hierarchical regression models were calculated. RESULTS Participants reported on average 12.66 (SD = 6.58) victimization experiences. The female and diverse gender groups reported higher rates of victimization, loneliness, depressiveness, and suicidality than the males. Participants in residential care reported more victimizations and stronger feelings of loneliness than those in family-based care. Poly-victimization was not associated with any of these internalizing symptoms but peer victimization was significantly associated with depressiveness (β = 0.23, p = .002) and loneliness (β = 0.22, p = .006), sexual victimization with depressiveness (β = 0.22, p = .004). CONCLUSION Y-IC show high levels of victimization and internalizing symptoms, with higher burden on girls and youth living in residential care. Findings underscore the relevance of social exclusion experiences among peers within Y-IC. Interventions should address multiple forms of victimization, with a special focus on sexual and peer victimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Birgit Wagner
- Medical School Berlin, Rüdesheimer Straße 50, 14197 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Nina Heinrichs
- Universität Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bennett A, Clement A, Walton R, Jackson Y, Gabrielli J. Youth Reported Perpetrators of Victimization Within a Foster Care Sample. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2024; 29:283-296. [PMID: 36907656 DOI: 10.1177/10775595231163452] [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
Maltreatment type, severity, and chronicity are predictors of poor youth outcomes, yet youth reported perpetrators of abuse have gone largely unstudied. Little is known about variation in perpetration across youth characteristics (e.g., age, gender, placement type) and abuse features. This study aims to describe youth reported perpetrators of victimization within a foster care sample. 503 youth in foster care (ages 8-21Â years) reported on experiences of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. Follow up questions assessed abuse frequency and perpetrators. Mann-Whitney U Tests were used to compare central tendency differences in number of perpetrators reported across youth characteristics and victimization features. Biological caregivers were commonly endorsed perpetrators of physical and psychological abuse, though youth also reported high levels of peer victimization. For sexual abuse, non-related adults were commonly reported perpetrators, however, youth reported higher levels of victimization from peers. Older youth and youth residing in residential care reported higher numbers of perpetrators; girls reported more perpetrators of psychological and sexual abuse as compared to boys. Abuse severity, chronicity, and number of perpetrators were positively associated, and number of perpetrators differed across abuse severity levels. Perpetrator count and type may be important features of victimization experiences, particularly for youth in foster care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bennett
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alex Clement
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rachel Walton
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yo Jackson
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Joy Gabrielli
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fernández-GarcÃa O, Gil-Llario MD, Ballester-Arnal R. Sexual Victimization of Adolescents in Residential Care: Self-Reported and Other-Reported Prevalence. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:389-398. [PMID: 37126516 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2197892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents in the child welfare system have been exposed to multiple forms of victimization, most notably sexual victimization, many times underreported and misreported. The main aim of this study was to explore the lifetime prevalence of sexual victimization among adolescents in residential care in Eastern Spain, contrasting self-reported information compared to the information reported by the professionals. Sexual abuse/assault characteristics and effects of gender and age were analyzed. Additionally, the association between sexual revictimization and the relationship with the aggressor as well as the age of the first episode of sexual abuse/assault was analyzed. The sample comprised 346 adolescents (34.1% females, 65.9% males) aged between 11 and 19Â years old. The prevalence of sexual victimization reported by adolescents was 35.3%, more than double compared to the information reported by professionals (16.9%). Females experienced significantly more sexual victimization than males (ORÂ =Â 0.23, 95% CI [0.14, 0.37]). The age of the victim at the first episode of sexual abuse/assault and the relationship with the aggressor were explanatory variables of revictimization. Research such as this is crucial to ascertain that these adolescents have very different needs that will influence the design of affective-sexual education initiatives, which are essential to ensure healthy sexual development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Fernández-GarcÃa
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia
| | - MarÃa Dolores Gil-Llario
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia
| | - Rafael Ballester-Arnal
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bennett A, Jackson Y, Gabrielli J. A social network analysis of perpetrators of child maltreatment reported by youth in foster care. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 145:106432. [PMID: 37683404 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106432] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior research on child maltreatment has focused on distinct features of maltreatment (type, severity, chronicity) important for youth outcomes, yet perpetrators of child maltreatment reported by youth have gone largely unstudied. The present study examines connections between perpetrators, the total number and type of perpetrators reported, and the frequency at which each type of perpetrator was reported across 24 relationship types to provide a foundation for future research seeking to provide comprehensive measurement of perpetrator profiles. METHODS Data from 503 youth in foster care (8-21Â years old) were collected through the Studying Pathways to Adjustment and Resilience in Kids (SPARK) Project. Youth reported on their history of physical, sexual, and psychological maltreatment. Social Network Analysis (SNA) was used to visualize links between perpetrators within maltreatment type and paired samples t-tests were used to compare differences between network edge weights. RESULTS Full sample SNA results were highly interconnected and variable across maltreatment types. Biological parents and peers were the most common perpetrators of physical and psychological abuse with peers and non-family adults being most common for sexual abuse. Family and community member groupings were most distinct in the physical and psychological abuse networks whereas in the sexual abuse network, ties between perpetrators were more equidistant. CONCLUSIONS Differences exist in perpetrator profiles across maltreatment types, adding a layer of complexity to how maltreatment experiences are captured, and variability in profiles might provide insight to differing youth outcomes. Understanding individual youth perpetrator profiles could be used to inform foster care placements and reduce the risk of revictimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bennett
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - Yo Jackson
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, United States of America
| | - Joy Gabrielli
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lee J, Dhauna J, Silvers JA, Houston MH, Barnert ES. Therapeutic Dance for the Healing of Sexual Trauma: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2143-2164. [PMID: 35466836 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221086898] [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
Therapeutic dance has been increasingly used as a treatment modality for sexual trauma, yet its evidence-based efficacy has not yet been catalogued. We therefore conducted a systematic review to summarize the existing evidence for therapeutic dance as an intervention for healing after sexual trauma. We searched 5 major databases to identify intervention studies on the use of therapeutic dance for individuals with histories of sexual trauma. Studies were included based on the following criteria: 1) the study involves individuals who have been exposed to sexual trauma; 2) the study reports on any form of dance as a therapeutic intervention; and 3) the study reports on dance intervention outcomes. A total of 1,686 sources were identified. Of these, 11 articles met eligibility criteria and were assessed. Reported outcomes were extracted and organized into emergent domains. We found that therapeutic dance acts upon three broad domains-affect, self, and interpersonal relationships - and can be delivered in diverse settings. Across the studies, dance showed benefits on outcomes. However, a significant weakness of the current peer-reviewed literature is the lack of robust empirical intervention research on dance therapy. Overall, the emerging literature suggests that therapeutic dance is a potential intervention for those who have experienced sexual trauma. The review findings presented here can be used to inform practitioners and systems of care targeted for those who have been subject to sexual trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janeet Dhauna
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer A Silvers
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth S Barnert
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lyons JS, Fernando AD. Creating the necessary infrastructure for a trauma-informed system of care for children and youth. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1129197. [PMID: 37496789 PMCID: PMC10366599 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1129197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding and addressing the impact of adverse life events is an important priority in the design of helping systems. However, creating trauma-informed systems requires efforts to embed effective trauma-informed work in routine practice. This article discusses a model for developing trauma-informed systems using the Transformational Collaborative Outcomes Management (TCOM) framework, a strategy for engineering person-centered care. Person-centered care is naturally congruent with trauma-informed care. We describe the initial stages of implementation of a trauma-informed standardized assessment process to support the sustained evolution of trauma-informed care. Distinguishing between traumatic experiences and traumatic stress is fundamental to an effective trauma-informed system. We describe two sets of analyses-one in a statewide child welfare system and the other in a statewide behavioral health system. These projects found opportunities in the analysis of the detection of traumatic stress based on traumatic experiences to inform practice and policy. Being trauma-informed in child welfare is distinct from being trauma-informed in behavioral health. In child welfare, it appears that a number of children are resilient in the face of traumatic experiences and do not require trauma treatment interventions. However, delayed and missed traumatic stress responses are common. In behavioral health, misses often occur among adolescents, particularly boys, who engage in acting out behavior. Opportunities for the ongoing development of trauma-informed systems using the TCOM framework are discussed.
Collapse
|
7
|
Modrowski CA, Chaplo SD, Kerig PK. Youth Dually-Involved in the Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Systems: Varying Definitions and Their Associations with Trauma Exposure, Posttraumatic Stress, & Offending. CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW 2023; 150:106998. [PMID: 37745625 PMCID: PMC10512733 DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2023.106998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Recently, scholars have placed increasing effort on better understanding the unique needs of youth involved in both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. This study drew from the Developmental Cascade of Multisystem Involvement Framework to examine group differences in trauma exposure, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and offending among youth solely involved in the juvenile justice system and youth with varying degrees of dual-system involvement, including crossover youth (i.e., youth with a history of maltreatment and offending regardless of system involvement), dual-contact youth (i.e., youth who had a history of a substantiated CW maltreatment petition prior to their involvement in the current study), and dually-involved youth (i.e., youth under the care and custody of the state's child welfare system at the time of study participation). Four-hundred adolescents (25% girls, Mage = 15.97) who were recruited from a detention center and completed self-report measures assessing trauma exposure, posttraumatic stress, and offending. Juvenile justice and child welfare records also were collected. Results indicated that, compared to youth solely involved in the juvenile justice system, crossover youth reported significantly more exposure to traumatic events, more severe posttraumatic stress symptoms, and more self-reported offending. In contrast, results indicated few differences between dual-contact youth and youth solely involved in the juvenile justice system; these groups only differed in age and in recidivism charges. There also were few differences between dually-involved youth and youth solely involved in the juvenile justice system; these groups only differed in age and exposure to non-Criterion A traumatic events. The current results suggest that categorizing youth as crossover youth based on their own self-reported history of child maltreatment exposure resulted in more observed differences between dual-system youth and youth solely involved in juvenile justice. The present results have valuable implications for how we operationalize youth's system involvement and highlight the importance of examining child maltreatment as a point of prevention and intervention efforts for these youth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crosby A Modrowski
- Alpert Medical School of Brown University/Bradley Hasbro Children's Research Center 1 Hoppin Street, Suite 204, Providence, RI 02903
| | - Shannon D Chaplo
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute 105 Smith Level Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
| | - Patricia K Kerig
- University of Utah, Department of Psychology 380 S 1530 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Aviram Z, Tener D, Katz C. "We were there all alone": Sexual abuse within the peer group in boarding schools in Israel - Retrospective perceptions of adult survivors. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 140:106154. [PMID: 36989757 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the extensive research on child sexual abuse and the alarming extent of the phenomenon among peers, certain perspectives are still missing. OBJECTIVE The current study aimed to explore the subjective experience of adult survivors of peer sexual abuse while in boarding school, which has rarely been explored. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING The present study included 15 adults who were sexually abused by their peers while attending boarding school. METHODS The data were based on semi-structured in-depth interviews focused on the abuse story, disclosure, and the meaning of the boarding school context to the participants. The interviews were analyzed using the qualitative thematic analysis approach. RESULTS The findings characterized the boarding school as lacking parental figures, lacking rule and regulation enforcement, and staff who were not able to deal effectively with sexual abuse cases. The relationships within the peer group in the boarding school were characterized by intense, although unspoken, intimacy and sexuality. As part of the group's socialization, breaking the rules was encouraged, including in the sexual realm. Furthermore, the boarding school was perceived as a space that maintained conservative patriarchal social structures that encouraged traditional gender perceptions. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study indicated the urgent need to advance both policy and practice in this area, for example, greater involvement of the boarding school staff in the lives of the adolescents and implementation of rules and regulations to create a safer climate for those who choose, or need, to live away from home.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziv Aviram
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare at the Hebrew University of Jerualem, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem 9190501, Israel
| | - Dafna Tener
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare at the Hebrew University of Jerualem, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem 9190501, Israel.
| | - Carmit Katz
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, 30 Chaim Levanon, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Haggerty KP, Barkan SE, Caouette JD, Skinner ML, Hanson KG. Two-Year Risk Behavior Outcomes from Connecting, a Prevention Program for Caregivers and Youth in Foster Care. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2023; 24:15-26. [PMID: 35788868 PMCID: PMC9253245 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01390-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This study experimentally tested risk behavior outcomes of Connecting, a low-cost, self-directed, family-based prevention program for families with youth placed in their care by state child welfare agencies. Families caring for youth aged 11 to 15 years from across Washington State were recruited and randomly assigned to either the self-directed program with supplemental support (n = 110) or a treatment as usual control condition (n = 110). Program materials included a workbook with family activities and DVDs with video clips. Over the 10-week program, participants received motivational support contacts to prompt program completion. Survey data were collected from youth and their caregivers at baseline, directly following intervention, then again at 12 and 24 months post-intervention. Intervention effects at 24-month follow-up were found to be moderated by age. Among 16- to 17-year-old youth at follow-up, there was an intervention benefit yielding reduced use of any substance (OR = 0.71, 95% CI [0.54, 0.93], p = 0.01) and nonviolent delinquency (OR = 0.73, 95% CI [0.57, 0.94], p = 0.02). There was no intervention effect among adolescents aged 13 to 15 years for any risk behaviors. This evidence suggests that the developmental timing of a self-directed, family-focused preventive intervention for youth and their caregivers in the foster care system may influence risk behaviors that typically emerge in late adolescence. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03157895.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin P. Haggerty
- The Social Development Research Group, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Susan E. Barkan
- Partners for Our Children, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Justin D. Caouette
- The Social Development Research Group, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Martie L. Skinner
- The Social Development Research Group, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Koren G. Hanson
- The Social Development Research Group, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Roache M, McSherry D. Understanding and addressing Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) in residential care in Northern Ireland using a qualitative case study design: The residential social care worker perspective. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 122:105329. [PMID: 34560399 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105329] [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: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children in state care are one of the most vulnerable group of young people for sexual exploitation in today's society, with those in residential care being particularly vulnerable. The links between being in residential care and sexual exploitation are well recognised but are not well understood. OBJECTIVE This exploratory qualitative case study aimed to reflect the perspective of residential social care workers in Northern Ireland regarding the challenge of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) in residential care and to identify strategies to protect these children. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Six semi-structured interviews were conducted with residential social care workers, audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. METHODS Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-step methodology for reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Six themes were identified: (i) risk; (ii) reasons to engage/agency; (iii) vulnerability; (iv) identifying child sexual exploitation; (v) responding to child sexual exploitation; (vi) the residential social care workers experience. CONCLUSION The findings indicate that sexual exploitation is a common concern amongst residential social care workers in Northern Ireland but that they often feel unable to successfully intervene. Further, current safeguarding procedures may require significant revision as a result of the internet generally and social media in particular increasing predatory access to children in residential care. The study highlights an urgent need for easier access to psychological support for children in residential care, outreach support services, and more clinical psychological input for residential social care workers. Purposely assembled support teams for children in residential care may be necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Roache
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic McSherry
- Reader in Psychology, School of Psychology, Institute of Mental Health Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Modrowski CA, Chaplo SD, Kerig PK. Advancing Our Understanding of the Risk Factors Associated with Crossover Youth in the Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Systems: A Trauma-Informed Research Agenda. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2021; 25:283-299. [PMID: 34518924 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-021-00370-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has provided robust evidence demonstrating that a notable proportion of youth become involved in both the child welfare (CW) system and the juvenile justice (JJ) system, a population often referred to as crossover youth. Prior work has identified a number of risk factors associated with crossing over between these systems. However, there are limitations to the extant literature, key among which is a lack of systematic attention to the influence of trauma exposure and posttraumatic sequelae on the crossover trajectory. In contrast, viewing this research through a trauma-informed lens promises to enhance our ability to integrate findings across studies and to derive theoretically derived hypotheses about underlying mechanisms which will better inform future research and the development of effective prevention and intervention efforts. Accordingly, the purpose of this article is to present a trauma-informed research agenda that would strengthen future research in the field. After providing a brief critique of the existing studies that has documented known risk factors associated with the crossover population, we outline ways in which future research could apply relevant theoretical trauma-informed approaches, including developmental traumatology, to further advance our knowledge of risk factors and mechanisms associated with the crossover trajectory. We conclude by discussing policy and system-wide implications related to the proposed research agenda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crosby A Modrowski
- Alpert Medical School, Brown University/Bradley Hasbro Children's Research Center, 1 Hoppin Street, Suite 204, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
| | - Shannon D Chaplo
- Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Patricia K Kerig
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ahlin EM. Risk Factors of Sexual Assault and Victimization Among Youth in Custody. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP2164-2187NP. [PMID: 29451424 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518757226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that youth are at higher risk of sexual assault and victimization while in custody than adult inmates. However, compared with adult inmates, very little is known about the risk factors associated with such violence among youth in custody. Without sufficient research on risk factors associated with sexual assault and victimization among youth in custody, practitioners and policy makers may be reliant on the adult literature when making decisions about how to address and prevent such violence among juveniles. This article seeks to determine if extrapolating data from the substantial prison literature is appropriate by assessing the parallels between risk factors of sexual assault and victimization among youth in custody and those identified for adult inmates. This study uses data of 8,659 youth from the second administration of the National Survey of Youth in Custody (NSYC-2) to assess correlates of sexual assault and victimization during periods of detention. Study findings show that experiences with assault and victimization prior to the present period of detention were stronger indicators of sexual assault and victimization while in custody than youth characteristics and demographics and other experiences with assault and victimization. Further, there are differences in risk factors associated with sexual assault and victimization among youth in custody compared to adult inmates, which emphasizes the risk of prior sexual assault and victimization in the community and prior custodial settings.
Collapse
|
13
|
Death J, Moore T, McArthur M, Roche S, Tilbury C. Young People's Perceptions of Sexual Assault in Residential Care: "It Does Happen a Lot". JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2021; 30:4-20. [PMID: 32045343 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2020.1715521] [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: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (the Royal Commission) examined child sexual abuse within a wide range of institutions that provide services to children, this included residential facilities. The current study (funded by the Royal Commission) considers young people's perception of safety in residential care; specifically, the current study attended to the voices of young people who spoke about sexual harassment and assault in qualitative interviews. Interviews were conducted with young people aged between 13 and 21 years who were or had recently been in residential care. Participants were asked for their perceptions of situations in a series of vignettes describing various levels and types of sexual assault and harassment. During these interviews, the young people in this study voluntarily reported known incidences of sexual assault and harassment in varying levels, perpetrated by workers, individuals outside of residential care, and peers within residential care. Sexual assault and harassment was discussed in heteronormative and gendered ways with young men seen as perpetrators and protectors, and young women seen as being vulnerable. Further, it was evident from this study, that there were varying responses to these situations from workers within the residential care facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Death
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Tim Moore
- Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Steven Roche
- Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Simon J, Luetzow A, Conte JR. Thirty years of the convention on the rights of the child: Developments in child sexual abuse and exploitation. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 110:104399. [PMID: 32122640 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Since its adoption by the United Nations in November 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) has become the most universally ratified human rights treaty in history; presently only the United States has not ratified it. The CRC articulates children's human rights and notably includes freedom from sexual abuse and exploitation. Yet thirty years after the Convention was adopted, child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSA/E) remain serious, persistent, and evolving global issues. This overview both describes the current state of research on child sexual abuse and exploitation and evaluates the CRC's legacy in terms of State-level responses to CSA/E. Points of agreement and disagreement over what constitutes CSA/E and how widespread it is are explored. Also presented are the contexts in which CSA/E takes place, and factors associated with children's risk of being sexually abused or exploited. Emerging issues in these areas are the internet and children's use of it, as children may now become subject to abuse or exploitation even when physically alone. The second part of the paper addresses the CRC's influence on States' domestic legislation and States' responses to CSA/E more broadly. Gaps in efforts to monitor and report on the CRC's implementation with respect to its impact on CSA/E are described. The discussion offers guidance for future efforts to research and respond to child sexual abuse and exploitation, and in particular the ongoing need for support to survivors beyond the legal response paradigm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- June Simon
- Joshua Center on Child Sexual Abuse at the University of Washington, United States.
| | - Ann Luetzow
- Joshua Center on Child Sexual Abuse at the University of Washington, United States
| | - Jon R Conte
- Joshua Center on Child Sexual Abuse at the University of Washington, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Kaufman
- Center for Child and Family Traumatic Stress, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Herruzo C, Raya Trenas A, Pino MJ, Herruzo J. Study of the Differential Consequences of Neglect and Poverty on Adaptive and Maladaptive Behavior in Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17030739. [PMID: 31979263 PMCID: PMC7037696 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17030739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The consequences of physical neglect on retardation in the development of adaptive behaviors and the increased risk of poor physical and mental health are well documented. As physical neglect is a phenomenon found almost exclusively among socially deprived people, it is important to distinguish the health effects caused by neglect from those caused by poverty. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of poverty and physical neglect on the development of problematic externalizing and internalizing behaviors, adaptive skills, and school problems among school children between the ages of 3 and 12. A group of 157 children were chosen from 28 Andalusian schools and classified in three homogeneous groups. Children in group 1 (n = 53) had two target conditions: living in slums (poverty) and suffering from neglect. Children in group 2 (n = 52) had one target condition: living in the same slums as the children in group 1, but not suffering from neglect. Group 3 (n = 52) consisted of children from other (non-slum) neighborhoods who did not suffer from neglect. Adaptive and maladaptive behaviors were evaluated with the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Significant differences were found between group 1 and group 2, but there were no important differences between group 2 and group 3. The conclusion was that externalizing and internalizing problems, school problems, and low adaptive skills found in neglected children were associated with neglect rather than with poverty or socially deprived environments.
Collapse
|
17
|
Greeno EJ, Fedina L, Lee BR, Farrell J, Harburger D. Psychological Well-Being, Risk, and Resilience of Youth in Out-Of-Home Care and Former Foster Youth. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2019; 12:175-185. [PMID: 32318190 PMCID: PMC7163805 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-018-0204-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This study assesses psychological well-being, risk, and resilience of youth currently in-care and former foster youth and how preparation for independent living affects these factors. Findings suggest significant psychosocial distress for former foster youth. Youth currently in-care fared better but demonstrated high scores on measures suggesting risk and potential for future mental health challenges. For former foster youth, independent living preparation positively impacted well-being. The more preparation for independence a youth received, the lower the psychological challenges. Findings suggest the need for mental health support for transitioning youth as well as preparation for independent living as a way to improve the well-being of former foster youth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J. Greeno
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, 525 W. Redwood Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
- The Institute for Innovation and Implementation, School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Lisa Fedina
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, 525 W. Redwood Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
| | - Bethany R. Lee
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, 525 W. Redwood Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
| | - Jill Farrell
- The Institute for Innovation and Implementation, School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Deborah Harburger
- The Institute for Innovation and Implementation, School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Allroggen M, Ohlert J, Rau T, Fegert JM. Sexual Violence by Juveniles in Institutions: A Descriptive Study on Prevalence and Circumstances. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2018; 62:1806-1820. [PMID: 28720015 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x17719292] [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] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents in institutionalized care are at a particularly high risk of exhibiting sexually aggressive behavior including sexual harassment. So far, however, studies about the prevalence of sexually aggressive behavior in institutions are lacking. In this survey, 322 adolescents (43% female, average age 16.7 years) from 32 residential care facilities and boarding schools across Germany were asked about sexually aggressive behavior via a standardized questionnaire. Overall, 23.5% of the participants engaged in some form of sexually aggressive behavior in their lives, and 4.6% reported having committed a sexual assault with (actual or attempted) penetration. A closer look at the circumstances of those offenses shows that the victims were in most cases acquainted with and of the same age as the offenders, that threats and violence were used in some cases, and especially in the case of actual or attempted penetration, and that only a minority of offenders suffered any consequences for their acts. The implementation of protective measures for institutions and the treatment of adolescents in institutions will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeannine Ohlert
- 1 University Hospital Ulm, Germany
- 2 German Sport University Cologne, Germany
| | - Thea Rau
- 1 University Hospital Ulm, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gilbert L, Reza A, Mercy J, Lea V, Lee J, Xu L, Marcelin LH, Hast M, Vertefeuille J, Domercant JW. The experience of violence against children in domestic servitude in Haiti: Results from the Violence Against Children Survey, Haiti 2012. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2018; 76:184-193. [PMID: 29112856 PMCID: PMC6016389 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been estimates that over 150,000 Haitian children are living in servitude. Child domestic servants who perform unpaid labor are referred to as "restavèks." Restavèks are often stigmatized, prohibited from attending school, and isolated from family placing them at higher risk for experiencing violence. In the absence of national data on the experiences of restavèks in Haiti, the study objective was to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of restavèks in Haiti and to assess their experiences of violence in childhood. METHODS The Violence Against Children Survey was a nationally representative, cross-sectional household survey of 13-24year olds (n=2916) conducted May-June 2012 in Haiti. A stratified three-stage cluster design was used to sample households and camps containing persons displaced by the 2010 earthquake. Respondents were interviewed to assess lifetime prevalence of physical, emotional, and sexual violence occurring before age 18. Chi-squared tests were used to assess the association between having been a restavèk and experiencing violence in childhood. FINDINGS In this study 17.4% of females and 12.2% of males reported having been restavèks before age 18. Restavèks were more likely to have worked in childhood, have never attended school, and to have come from a household that did not have enough money for food in childhood. Females who had been restavèks in childhood had higher odds of reporting childhood physical (OR 2.04 [1.40-2.97]); emotional (OR 2.41 [1.80-3.23]); and sexual violence (OR 1.86 [95% CI 1.34-2.58]) compared to females who had never been restavèks. Similarly, males who had ever been restavèks in childhood had significantly increased odds of emotional violence (OR 3.06 [1.99-4.70]) and sexual violence (OR 1.85 [1.12-3.07]) compared to males who had never been restavèks, but there was no difference in childhood physical violence. INTERPRETATION This study demonstrates that child domestic servants in Haiti experience higher rates of childhood violence and have less access to education and financial resources than other Haitian children. These findings highlight the importance of addressing both the lack of human rights law enforcement and the poor economic circumstances that allow the practice of restavèk to continue in Haiti.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah Gilbert
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Violence Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS F64, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Avid Reza
- School of Humanity and Awareness Inc., 6255 Barfield Road NE. Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30328, USA.
| | - James Mercy
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Violence Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS F64, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Veronica Lea
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Global Health Protection1825 Century Center, MS E98, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Juliette Lee
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Global Health Protection1825 Century Center, MS E98, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Likang Xu
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Analysis, Research and Practice Integration, USA.
| | - Louis Herns Marcelin
- Interuniversity Institute for Research and Development (INURED), Haiti 8, Rue Eucalyptus, Delmas 83, Haiti University of Miami Department of Anthropology Merrick 103-G, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA.
| | - Marisa Hast
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N Wolfe St. Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - John Vertefeuille
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Global Immunization Division, 1600 Clifton Road, MS A04 Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Jean Wysler Domercant
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health Division of Global HIV/AIDS Haiti, U.S. Embassy Tabarre, PO Box 1634, Haiti.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wubs D, Batstra L, Grietens HWE. Speaking With and Without Words-An Analysis of Foster Children's Expressions and Behaviors That Are Suggestive of Prior Sexual Abuse. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2018; 27:70-87. [PMID: 29161220 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2017.1390716] [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] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This exploratory study reports on foster children's informal self-disclosures of previously unknown histories of sexual abuse. Data were collected from 40 children's files, and an inductive thematic analysis of verbal and behavioral expressions was conducted. Findings suggest that foster children's self-disclosures can be fragmented, spontaneous, narrative, or triggered and often occur during everyday activities in the foster family. The children disclose their past by referring to the perpetrator or the severity of the abuse or by acting out, mostly by reenacting sexual abuse experiences. In addition, some children use childish vocabulary focusing on genitals or sexual acts they were involved in or want to be involved in. Last, some foster children seem to be linguistically challenged to disclose that a female person abused them or that they were forced to reciprocate sexually. This study adds to the understanding of the complex process of child sexual abuse disclosure in the context of foster care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorijn Wubs
- a Department of Special Needs Education & Youth Care , University of Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Laura Batstra
- a Department of Special Needs Education & Youth Care , University of Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Hans W E Grietens
- a Department of Special Needs Education & Youth Care , University of Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Palmer D, Feldman V. Toward a more comprehensive analysis of the role of organizational culture in child sexual abuse in institutional contexts. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2017; 74:23-34. [PMID: 28823403 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This article draws on a report prepared for the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (Palmer et al., 2016) to develop a more comprehensive analysis of the role that organizational culture plays in child sexual abuse in institutional contexts, where institutional contexts are taken to be formal organizations that include children among their members (referred to here as "youth-serving organizations"). We begin by integrating five strains of theory and research on organizational culture from organizational sociology and management theory into a unified framework for analysis. We then elaborate the main paths through which organizational culture can influence child sexual abuse in youth-serving organizations. We then use our unified analytic framework and our understanding of the main paths through which organizational culture can influence child sexual abuse in youth-serving organizations to analyze the role that organizational culture plays in the perpetration, detection, and response to child sexual abuse in youth-serving organizations. We selectively illustrate our analysis with case materials compiled by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse and reports of child sexual abuse published in a variety of other sources. We conclude with a brief discussion of the policy implications of our analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald Palmer
- Graduate School of Management, University of California, Davis, CA 95620, USA.
| | - Valerie Feldman
- Department of Sociology, University of California, Davis, CA 95620, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Blakemore T, Herbert JL, Arney F, Parkinson S. The impacts of institutional child sexual abuse: A rapid review of the evidence. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2017; 74:35-48. [PMID: 28864118 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
While awareness of institutional child sexual abuse has grown in recent years, there remains limited understanding of its occurrence and outcomes as a distinct form of abuse. Drawing on research commissioned by the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, this article presents a rapid review of available evidence on the impacts of institutional abuse on victim/survivors. Literature searches identified 75 sources spanning international peer reviewed work and reports to Government that document or quantify the impacts of mostly historical child sexual abuse occurring in religious, educational, sporting and residential or out-of-home care settings. Consistent with child sexual abuse in other contexts, institutional child sexual abuse is found to be associated with numerous, pervasive and connected impacts upon the psychological, physical, social, educative and economic wellbeing of victims/survivors. Further, institutional child sexual abuse is associated with vicarious trauma at the individual, family and community level, and with impacts to the spiritual wellbeing of victims/survivors of abuse that occurs in religious settings. The identified literature suggests the trauma of institutional child sexual abuse may be exacerbated by the interplay of abuse dynamics in institutional settings, which may reduce or impede circumstances supporting disclosure, belief, support and protection from future harm. Acknowledging the limitations of the present study and the available evidence, this narrative synthesis provides insights into the complex impacts of institutional child sexual abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Blakemore
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - James Leslie Herbert
- Australian Centre for Child Protection, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| | - Fiona Arney
- Australian Centre for Child Protection, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| | - Samantha Parkinson
- Australian Centre for Child Protection, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Allroggen M, Rau T, Ohlert J, Fegert JM. Lifetime prevalence and incidence of sexual victimization of adolescents in institutional care. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2017; 66:23-30. [PMID: 28214013 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The frequency of sexual victimization in high-risk populations like adolescents in institutional care has hardly been studied. In this study, we report lifetime prevalence and incidence from a nationwide German sample including 322 adolescents (mean age 16.69 years, 43% female) from 20 residential care facilities and 12 boarding schools. Lifetime prevalence for severe sexual victimization (in and outside of institution) was 46.7% for girls and 8.0% for boys. Moreover, 5% of all adolescents experienced severe sexual victimization for the first time after they were admitted to the current institution (mean duration of stay in the current institution 3.08 years). Offenders were mostly adolescents of the same age whereas staff members played a minor role as perpetrators. We conclude that the high rate of sexual victimization among adolescents in institutional care should be considered during decision-making processes concerning out-of-home placement and during a stay in residential care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Allroggen
- University of Ulm, Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Germany.
| | - Thea Rau
- University of Ulm, Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Germany
| | - Jeannine Ohlert
- University of Ulm, Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Germany
| | - Jörg M Fegert
- University of Ulm, Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
[Disclosure of Adolescents in Residential Care Institutions and Boarding Schools after Exposure to Sexual Violence]. Prax Kinderpsychol Kinderpsychiatr 2017; 65:638-654. [PMID: 27819617 DOI: 10.13109/prkk.2016.65.9.638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Disclosure of Adolescents in Residential Care Institutions and Boarding Schools after Exposure to Sexual Violence In international research, many papers exist about the issue of disclosure after having experienced sexual violence. However, specific research regarding disclosure processes of children and adolescents in institutional care are missing, even though those are particularly often affected by sexual violence. In the Germany-wide study "Sprich mit!", adolescents from the age of 15 up (n = 322; average age 16,69 (SD = 1,3); 57,1 % males) who live in residential care or boarding schools were asked for experiences of sexual violence and their consequences by means of a self-report questionnaire. Results showed that the majority of the adolescents (82 %) entrusted themselves to someone, mostly towards peers (56 %) and less frequent towards adults (24 %). Boys and girls opened up equally often, regardless of the severity of the experienced violence. Adolescents who entrusted themselves towards their peers indicated retrospectively more satisfaction than those entrusting themselves towards adults, even if there were no consequences following the disclosure. Considering that the disclosure towards peers did not initiate a process of help, adolescents in institutional care should be better informed about relevant possibilities to entrust themselves and receive support.
Collapse
|
26
|
Whittaker JK, Holmes L, del Valle JF, Ainsworth F, Andreassen T, Anglin J, Bellonci C, Berridge D, Bravo A, Canali C, Courtney M, Currey L, Daly D, Gilligan R, Grietens H, Harder A, Holden M, James S, Kendrick A, Knorth E, Lausten M, Lyons J, Martin E, McDermid S, McNamara P, Palareti L, Ramsey S, Sisson K, Small R, Thoburn J, Thompson R, Zeira A. Therapeutic Residential Care for Children and Youth: A Consensus Statement of the International Work Group on Therapeutic Residential Care*. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/0886571x.2016.1215755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
27
|
Turner D, Rettenberger M, Yoon D, Klein V, Eher R, Briken P. Risk Assessment in Child Sexual Abusers Working With Children. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2016; 28:572-596. [PMID: 25527631 DOI: 10.1177/1079063214564390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Child sexual abuse occurring in a child- or youth-serving institution or organization has attracted great public and scientific attention. In light of the particular personal and offense-related characteristics of men who have abused children within such an institution or organization, it is of special importance to evaluate the predictive performance of currently applied risk assessment instruments in this offender population. Therefore, the present study assessed the risk ratings and predictive performance of four risk assessment instruments and one instrument assessing protective factors concerning any, violent and sexual recidivism in child sexual abusers working with children (CSA-W) in comparison with extra-familial child sexual abusers (CSA-E) and intra-familial child sexual abusers (CSA-I). The results indicate that CSA-W mostly recidivate with a sexual offense. Although all included risk measures seem to function with CSA-W, the Static-99 seems to be the instrument that performs best in predicting sexual recidivism in CSA-W. CSA-W had the most protective factors measured with the Structured Assessment of PROtective Factors (SAPROF). While the SAPROF could not predict desistance from recidivism in CSA-W, it predicted desistance from any recidivism in all CSA. As CSA-W frequently hold many indicators for pedophilic sexual interests but only a few for antisocial tendencies, it can be suggested that CSA-W are at an increased risk for sexual recidivism and thus risk measures especially designed for sexual recidivism work best in CSA-W. Nevertheless, CSA-W also hold many protective factors; however, their impact on CSA-W is not clear yet and needs further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Turner
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Martin Rettenberger
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany Federal Evaluation Center for Violent and Sexual Offenders, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dahlnym Yoon
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Verena Klein
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Reinhard Eher
- Federal Evaluation Center for Violent and Sexual Offenders, Vienna, Austria University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Segura A, Pereda N, Guilera G, Abad J. Poly-victimization and psychopathology among Spanish adolescents in residential care. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2016; 55:40-51. [PMID: 27082753 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of poly-victimization on symptom severity among adolescents being cared for by the child welfare system in a southwestern European country. The sample consisted of 127 youths (62 males and 65 females) aged 12-17 years (M=14.60, SD=1.61) who were recruited from short- and long-term residential centers. The Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire (Finkelhor, Hamby, Ormrod, & Turner, 2005) and the Youth Self-Report (Achenbach & Rescorla, 2001) were used to assess interpersonal victimization experiences and psychopathology, respectively. Victim (n=68), low poly-victim (n=48), and high poly-victim (n=18) groups had comparable rates of psychopathology severity, with the exception of rule-breaking behavior, which was more severe among those with more victimization experiences (Cramer's V=.342). Poly-victimization was shown to be a significant predictor of clinically severe rule-breaking behavior, thought problems, and anxiety/depression symptoms. Among victimization types, sexual and electronic victimization significantly predicted withdrawn/depressed and aggressive behavior, and attention problems, respectively. The results of this study highlight the importance of assessing a wide range of victimization experiences among adolescents in care, since poly-victimization seems to underlie the serious psychological problems these youth present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Segura
- Grup de Recerca en Victimització Infantil i Adolescent (GReVIA), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Personalitat, Avaluació i Tractament Psicològics, Facultat de Psicologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Noemà Pereda
- Grup de Recerca en Victimització Infantil i Adolescent (GReVIA), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Personalitat, Avaluació i Tractament Psicològics, Facultat de Psicologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca en Cervell Cognició i Conducta, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgina Guilera
- Grup de Recerca en Victimització Infantil i Adolescent (GReVIA), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Metodologia de les Ciències del Comportament, Facultat de Psicologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca en Cervell Cognició i Conducta, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judit Abad
- Grup de Recerca en Victimització Infantil i Adolescent (GReVIA), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Personalitat, Avaluació i Tractament Psicològics, Facultat de Psicologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Balluerka N, Muela A, Amiano N, Caldentey MA. Promoting psychosocial adaptation of youths in residential care through animal-assisted psychotherapy. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2015; 50:193-205. [PMID: 26443670 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to examine the influence of animal-assisted psychotherapy (AAP) on the psychosocial adaptation of a group of adolescents in residential care who had suffered traumatic childhood experiences and who presented with mental health problems. This study recruited 63 youths (mean age=15.27, SD=1.63) who were divided into two groups: a treatment group of 39 youths (19 female and 20 male; mean age=15.03, SD=0.51) and a control group of 24 (five female and 19 male; mean age=15.67, SD=1.63). The youths who underwent the AAP program had higher school adjustment in comparison to their peers who did not receive treatment. Their hyperactive behavior decreased, and they showed better social skills, more leadership, and fewer attention problems. They also showed a more positive attitude toward their teachers in comparison to controls. No differences were observed in other variables associated with clinical symptoms or personal adjustment. These results suggest that AAP can be effective with teenagers who have suffered childhood traumas and who present with problems of psychosocial adaptation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nekane Balluerka
- University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Department of Social Psychology and Methodology of the Behavioural Sciences, Avenida de Tolosa, 70, 20018 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain; Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Doctor Begiristain Kalea, 20014 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
| | - Alexander Muela
- University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment, Avenida de Tolosa, 70, 20018 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
| | - Nora Amiano
- ANOTHE, Association of Animal and Nature-Assisted Therapy, Particular de Club, 4 - 4(o) E-1, 48930 Getxo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Miguel A Caldentey
- ANOTHE, Association of Animal and Nature-Assisted Therapy, Particular de Club, 4 - 4(o) E-1, 48930 Getxo, Bizkaia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Razuri EB, Howard ARH, Parris SR, Call CD, DeLuna JH, Hall JS, Purvis KB, Cross DR. Decrease in Behavioral Problems and Trauma Symptoms Among At-Risk Adopted Children Following Web-Based Trauma-Informed Parent Training Intervention. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 13:165-78. [PMID: 26072917 PMCID: PMC4784516 DOI: 10.1080/23761407.2015.1014123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Children who have experienced early adversities are at risk for behavioral problems and trauma symptoms. Using a two-group, pre-post intervention design, the authors evaluated the effectiveness of an online parent training for Trust-Based Relational Intervention, a trauma-informed, attachment-based intervention, in reducing behavioral problems and trauma symptoms in at-risk adopted children. Children of parents in the treatment group (n = 48) demonstrated significant decreases in behavioral problems and trauma symptoms after intervention. Scores for children in a matched-sample control group did not change. Findings suggest this intervention can effectively reduce behavioral problems and trauma symptoms in children with histories of adversities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Becker Razuri
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - Amanda R Hiles Howard
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - Sheri R Parris
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - Casey D Call
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - Jamie Hurst DeLuna
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - Jordan S Hall
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - Karyn B Purvis
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| | - David R Cross
- a TCU Institute of Child Development, Texas Christian University , Fort Worth , Texas , USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lionetti F, Pastore M, Barone L. Attachment in institutionalized children: a review and meta-analysis. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2015; 42:135-45. [PMID: 25747874 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2015.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2014] [Revised: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In this article we review the literature on attachment patterns in institutionalized children and then perform a meta-analysis on data from 10 attachment studies involving 399 children in institutional settings. We computed the overall attachment distribution of secure, insecure, and disorganized rates and explored the effect of a set of moderating variables (i.e., country of institutionalization, attachment assessment procedure, age at entry, and age at assessment). To overcome bias related to the small number of studies, we conducted both classical and Bayesian meta-analysis and obtained comparable results. Distribution of children's attachment patterns was: 18% secure, 28% insecure, and 54% disorganized/cannot classify. Compared to their family-reared peers, children living in an institution were found to be at greater risk for insecure and disorganized attachment, with a similar medium effect size for both distributions (d=0.77 and d=0.76, respectively). The following moderating variables were associated with insecure attachment: representational assessment procedures (d=0.63) and Eastern European countries of origin (d=1.13). Moderators for disorganized attachment were: Eastern European countries of origin (d=1.12), age at institution entry before the first birthday (d=0.93), and age at assessment under three years of age (d=0.91). Implications for child development and policies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lionetti
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy.
| | | | - Lavinia Barone
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Euser S, Alink LRA, Tharner A, van IJzendoorn MH, Bakermans-Kranenburg MJ. The Prevalence of Child Sexual Abuse in Out-of-home Care: Increased Risk for Children with a Mild Intellectual Disability. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2015; 29:83-92. [PMID: 25779085 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children without disabilities in out-of-home care have a higher risk of child sexual abuse [CSA (Euser et al. 2013)]. In this study, we examined the year prevalence of CSA in out-of-home care for children with a mild intellectual disability, and compared it with the prevalence in out-of-home care for non-disabled children and children in the general population. MATERIALS AND METHODS Professionals (N = 104) from out-of-home care facilities reported cases of CSA that occurred in 2010 for the children they worked with (N = 1650). RESULTS In out-of-home care for children with a mild intellectual disability, 9.8 per 1000 children were victims of CSA. This prevalence was significantly higher than in regular out-of-home care and in the general population. CONCLUSION Children with a mild intellectual disability in out-of-home care have an increased risk of CSA. Adequate education and support for both children and caregivers is necessary to recognize and prevent further sexual abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Euser
- Centre for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lenneke R A Alink
- Centre for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anne Tharner
- Centre for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Purvis KB, Razuri EB, Howard ARH, Call CD, DeLuna JH, Hall JS, Cross DR. Decrease in Behavioral Problems and Trauma Symptoms Among At-Risk Adopted Children Following Trauma-Informed Parent Training Intervention. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2015; 8:201-210. [PMID: 26322149 PMCID: PMC4548016 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-015-0055-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Children who have experienced early adversities are at risk for behavioral problems and trauma symptoms. Using a two-group, pre-post intervention design, the current study evaluated the effectiveness of a parent training utilizing Trust-Based Relational Intervention, a trauma-informed, attachment-based intervention, in reducing behavioral problems and trauma symptoms in at-risk adopted children. Children of parents in the treatment group (n = 48) demonstrated significant decreases in behavioral problems on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and significant decreases in trauma symptoms on the Trauma Symptoms Checklist for Young Children after intervention. Scores for children in a matched-sample control group did not change. Findings suggest that Trust-Based Relational Intervention is effective at addressing many behavioral problems and trauma symptoms in children with histories of adversities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karyn B. Purvis
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
| | - Erin Becker Razuri
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
| | - Amanda R. Hiles Howard
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
- />Samford University, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Casey D. Call
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
| | - Jamie Hurst DeLuna
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
| | - Jordan S. Hall
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
| | - David R. Cross
- />Institute of Child Development, Department of Psychology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129 USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kanamüller J, Riala K, Nivala M, Hakko H, Räsänen P. Correlates of sexual abuse in a sample of adolescent girls admitted to psychiatric inpatient care. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2014; 23:804-823. [PMID: 25101753 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2014.950401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We examined correlations of child sexual abuse among 300 adolescent girls in psychiatric inpatient treatment. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.)-based psychiatric diagnoses were obtained from the Schedule for Affective Disorder and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime and from data on family and behavioral characteristics from the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI). A total of 79 girls (26.3%) had experienced child sexual abuse during their lifetime. Child sexual abuse was associated with an adolescent's home environment, sibling status, smoking, posttraumatic stress disorder diagnosis, self-mutilating behavior, and suicidal behavior. At least 62% of the perpetrators were acquaintances of the victims. Correlates of child sexual abuse can be used to identify child sexual abuse victims and persons at heightened risk for child sexual abuse.
Collapse
|
35
|
A Challenging Job: Physical and Sexual Violence Towards Group Workers in Youth Residential Care. CHILD & YOUTH CARE FORUM 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s10566-013-9236-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|