The treatment of sexually abused children

Abstract

A model of cognitive-behavioral treatment for sexually abused children is presented. A brief review describes the definition, prevalence, and effects of child sexual abuse as well as the treatment outcome literature in this field. A treatment model is presented that includes the following therapeutic components: gradually encouraging the child to think and talk about the abuse; helping child and parent cope with emotions surrounding the abuse; helping parents better manage their child's behavior; and education regarding child sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, and personal safety skills. A case example is presented involving a 10-year-old girl who was sexually abused by a paternal uncle. The case depicts how the child's symptoms of posttraumatic stress, depression, and anxiety were successfully treated through individual sessions with the child and her mother as well as joint sessions that allowed the mother to serve as a therapeutic resource and support for her child.᭧ 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. • sexual abuse • child • cognitive-behavioral • posttraumatic stress disorder 70 • DEBLINGER, HEFLIN, and CLARK

Cognitive–behavioral group therapy for bereaved adults and children following an air disaster.

“…Keane, Fairbank, Caddell, Zimering, and Bender (1985) described the process of therapeutic exposure in a group format. In fact, many researchers agree that some form of trauma-focused discussion is a critical component of recovery in adults, adolescents, and children (Berliner, 1997; Chemtob, Hamada, & Nakashima, 1999; Cohen & Mannarino, 1996; Deblinger & Heflin, 1996; Janoff-Bulman, 1985; Keane et al, 1985; March, Amaya-Jackson, Murray, & Schulte, 1998; Marmar & Horowitz, 1988; Pynoos & Eth, 1986; Pynoos & Nader, 1988; Terr, 1990). By decreasing the emotional valence of traumatic memories, these memories are less likely to result in posttraumatic symptomatology.…”

Much to Do About Trauma: A Systematic Review of Existing Trauma-Informed Treatments on Youth Violence and Recidivism

“…Exposure techniques that involve ongoing exposure to stimuli that result in fear or anxiety have been used in conjunction with TF-CBT therapies for adolescents with trauma histories (Deblinger et al, 1996, 1999). Exposure therapy requires an individual to recall traumatic events in order to develop strategies designed to reduce the negative emotions associated with the past trauma (Cohen et al, 2004; Cohen & Mannarino, 1993; Deblinger & Heflin, 1996).…”