Clinical Assessment of Child Victims and Adult Survivors of Child Maltreatment

Abstract

In the last 2 decades, various forms of child maltreatment, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and neglect, have gained the increased attention of the general public and mental health professionals. In this article, the authors review relevant literature to assist counselors in conducting quality clinical assessments of child victims and adult survivors of child maltreatment. Guidelines are discussed, and specific measures and procedures are recommended.

Memory Accuracy After 20 Years for Interviews About Child Maltreatment

“…Personal relevance (e.g., “involvement”) is related to “greatly improved recall,” possibly due to greater discussion (rehearsal) of the event with others (Neisser et al, 1996, p. 337). Maltreatment-related clinical interviews concern personally relevant acts: These interviews entail discussions of experiences and symptoms associated with specific abuse incidents, as well as assessments of general affective, cognitive, and behavioral functioning (APA, 2013; Horton & Cruise, 1997).…”

The Use of Safety Plans With Children and Adolescents Living in Violent Families

“…Because mental health counselors often encounter children living in violent homes, their ability to facilitate children’s safety, and accurately assess the potential for further violence is “a required professional ability” (Elbogen, 2002, p. 591). Despite the fact that counselors regularly counsel children and adolescents who are living in violent, or potentially violent, circumstances (Douglas & Walsh, 2010; Horton & Cruise, 1997), no professional literature provides suggestions on how counselors or other mental health providers can facilitate and encourage the safety of children in these potentially unsafe environments.…”