Literature by topic
Australian materials are indexed in the Australian Family and Society Abstracts Database and are available for loan from the ACSSA collection at the Australian Institute of Family Studies library. Online publications in PDF format require Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Adult survivors of child sexual assault
Australian publications
A capacity building process for women with a history of child sexual abuse.
van Loon, Antonia; Kralik, Debbie.
Australian Journal of Primary Health v.12 no.2 Aug 2006: 167-176, figure, table
We report the research process used to promote the capacity of women made homeless by the consequences
of addictions to alcohol, drugs or gambling, that are considered the result of being sexually abused
as children. We aimed to improve the capacity of service providers working with this client group.
We used the participatory action research (PAR) process 'Look, Think, Act', employed by Stringer (1999; Stringer and
Genet, 2004). 'Looking' involved building a picture of the issue based on available information.
Participants described what was going on so a clear picture of the context emerged. "Thinking" was the
clarification phase where meanings and feelings generated by the experience were explored. It involved
sense-making questions such as, "What is happening and why? How am I feeling about this?" The aim was to understand
the when, what, where and how of the experience. After describing the issues the women were invited
to think about what they could do about the issue. 'Acting' (a difficult phase), involved effecting change. Action required
involvement with the situation. It was a new skill for many women as they had become disengaged with their lives.
They were encouraged to choose actions that moved them towards chosen goals. Many women had
become so disempoweredthey ignored their needs and had few hopes or aspirations. We encouraged
them to take the smallest and most easily managed actions likely to have the most benefit for their wellbeing. The process
arid the outcomes are described in this paper. (Journal abstract)
A
collaborative approach to working with women who have experienced sexual violence as
children - Stepping Out Housing Program.
Bullen, Jane; Jacobs, Julia; Le Pont, Lou Lou; Martin, Michelle; Smith, Constance.
In: NSW NGO Conference 2004 - NGOs Mental Health and Community: Turning the Tide, March 2004. Sydney,
NSW: Mental Health Coordinating Council, 2004, 17p, Online only
Stepping Out Housing Program is a medium term supported accommodation service in south western Sydney for women (with or
without dependent children) who have experienced child sexual assault and are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
This paper addresses the needs and experience of tenants who tell the story of being considered 'Too Hard' to
work with and who have trouble locating services that respond adequately to their complex needs. Tenants
and staff from Stepping Out were interviewed about their experiences of collaboration between services
including mental health services, and the paper includes the voices of the those interviewed. Ideas are suggested
for positive ways forward toward a better outcome.
A fair chance: Proposals for sexual assault law reform in NSW.
NSW Adult Sexual Assault Interagency Committee.
NSW: NSW Adult sexual assault interagency committee, 2004, 40p
This paper examines the prosecution of sexual assault in NSW. It looks at current
legislation, the impact on victims and options for reform as well as historical sexual assault cases that
took place when the adult victim was a child. This study does not exhaustively identify all legal issues
relating to sexual assault in NSW.
A very normal family.
Ford, Joy.
Charnwood, ACT: Ginninderra Press, 2005, 63p
In this personal account, an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse describes her experience of abuse and subsequent
efforts to overcome the trauma she suffered.
Abolishing child sex tourism: Australia's contribution.
Brungs, M
Australian Journal of Human Rights v.8 no.2 Dec 2002: 101-124
The author examines Australia's position on child sex tourism: how effective its legislation
is and to what extent it is complying with international obligations. She outlines some of the issues involved
before discussing international laws on child sex tourism and the relevant Australian legislation,
namely the Crimes (Child Sex Tourism) Amendment Act 1994. She considers difficulties in implementing
it, whether reform is appropriate and whether this legislation has been successful. While she believes
that the Act has achieved its objectives, she identifies problems in its operation and strategies that may
overcome these.
Adult victim/ survivors of childhood sexual assault.
Fergus, Lara; Keel, Monique.
Melbourne, Vic: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault, Australian Institute of Family
Studies, 2005, 6p (ACSSA Wrap no.1), and Online
An overview of current information on childhood sexual assault is presented. The following areas are covered: what childhood
sexual assault is, who sexually assaults children and how common it is, the effects on victim /
survivors, service responses, barriers to reporting, criminal justice responses, and what needs
to be addressed in terms of research and service responses.
After abuse.
Mammen, Gita.
Camberwell, Vic: ACER Press, 2006, 139p, figures
This guide is designed to help health practitioners work with the mental health of adults
who have experienced survivors, which derive from many schools of thought. The book discusses: the trauma
of childhood sexual abuse, including developmental trauma, types of traumatic events, secrecy, the adult
health aftermath of childhood sexual abuse and adult mental health; how service frameworks affect help
available to survivors, the types of help survivors seek, survivor health care pathway, types of agencies
and practitioners that survivors approach, relevance of service frameworks to a survivor, the current service
spectrum, and how perpetrator work differs; assessment and goal plans; preliminary considerations, principles
and pitfalls; underpinnings of early and ongoing abuse specific work; strategies and techniques in early
and ongoing abuse specific work; memory; and the social context of abuse specific mental health care. Case
studies are presented throughout.
An international perspective on sexual aggressive youth.
Johnson, M
The Link: The Official Newsletter of the International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect
(ISPCAN) v.11 no.3 Northern Fall - Southern Spring 2002: 6-7
This article provides an international perspective on how systems from a number of countries would respond
to a case involving a youth presenting behavioural problems, including sexual aggressiveness
towards younger children. The countries involved included Australia, USA, Israel, Argentina and China.
Respondents were asked to comment on how they would define the case, what agency or agencies would take
responsibility for intervention, the nature of the service response, and the anticipated outcomes of
the intervention.
Are children protected in the Family Court? A perspective from Western Australia.
Jenkins, S
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy v.23 no.3 Sept 2002: 145-152
Despite a landmark High Court judgement in the area of child sexual abuse allegations (M and M, 1988),
a major concern in such cases seems to be the fear that mothers use false accusations against fathers as
'weapons' in custody and contact cases. This paper seeks to examine the validity of such views as they apply to
Western Australia. In particular, it examines the belief that false accusations are rampant; the questionable
nature of 'parental alienation syndrome', the belief that young children's accounts of abuse lack
credibility, and the ignoring of the effect of abuse itself on the nature of a child's testimony.
The paper argues that the principle of 'protection of the child's best interests' should not necessarily be
equated with the child having access, with a parent previously accused of having abused the child. (Journal abstract)
Beholding: Bridging the chasm between entering and exiting the sexual abuse experience.
Sherwood, P.
ISA Journal (Incest Survivors Association) Spring 2000: 27-35, alternate pages
Adult survivors of sexual abuse who are in counselling often swing from phases of denial or
distancing themselves from the experience to flooding phases, where they are so overwhelmed
by memories of the experience that they are unable to function in their daily lives. As a counsellor
working with sexual abuse survivors, the author is interested in processes for ensuring a balance
between the client being flooded by the experience of the abuse and being so distant and defended from the
experience that therapeutic change is resisted. In this article the author outlines the following four
different counselling techniques that have contributions to make to assist the client caught in either
of these places: stress / coping techniques; experiential / expressive techniques; exploratory /
psychodynamic techniques; and cognitive / behavioural techniques. She also presents a recently developed model
- philophonetics counselling, which works to minimise the oscillation between flooding and being
defended against the experience, by providing a bridge for the client to travel between the two states of being.
Breaking the silence on abuse.
Jokovich, E
Rattler no.65 Autumn 2003: 11-14
Child abuse was highlighted during 2002 with allegations that a number of churches and institutions had covered up
incidents of child sexual abuse. In this article the author examines the history of child abuse in Australia and
welcomes the end of Australia's period of silence.
Building generations: A strengths-based, solution-focussed, parenting program
for female adult survivors of childhood family sexual violence: manual.
Basham, Sandra.
Perth, WA: Incest Survivors' Association, 2007, 217p
Survivors of childhood intrafamilial sexual abuse or domestic violence often face problems when they become
parents - overprotective or neglectful parenting skills, fears of not being a good parent, or risks
of a repeating cycle of family violence. The 'Building Generations' parenting program provides education
and support for groups of women, and covers parenting styles, healthy versus unhealthy parenting, consistency,
handling emotions, child development and behaviour, safety issues for children, dealing with anger and violence,
and self care. This manual outlines group sessions, and includes handouts, background information
and literature review, and tips for group facilitation and closure.
Child sexual abuse.
Healey, Justin ed.
Thirroul, NSW: Spinney Press, 2005, 44p, tables, illus. (Issues in society no.215)
Current information about child sexual abuse from diverse sources including newspapers, magazines,
websites, government reports and other organisations is collected in this publication. It is divided into two
main sections: Victims of child sexual abuse and Child sex offenders. The following subtopics are covered:
incidence and impact; myths; facts about sexual assault; sibling sexual abuse; rise in sex abuse between children;
the link between pornography and young sex offenders; indicators of child sexual abuse; effects; reporting child
sexual abuse; children and counselling; information for survivors; offender characteristics and modus operandi; paedophile
database; the right to silence of the accused and abuse of children under five years; protecting your child; children
stalked on the internet; child abusers abroad; child sexual abuse within the church; and why offenders abuse children.
Child sex tourism.
David, F.
Canberra, ACT: Australian Institute of Criminology, 2000, 6p (Trends and issues in crime and criminal justice
no.156), and Online
There are twenty-four countries around the world with legislation that makes child sex tourism a criminal conduct, even
when the act concerned is committed overseas. In 1994, Australia introduced offences relating to child sex tourism.
Since this time there have been a number of cases that have proceeded through the courts and have resulted in convictions.
This paper reviews the progress of this legislation, and notes the successes and difficulties experienced in
relation to the legislation.
Child sexual abuse in Indigenous communities.
(DOC 44 KB)
Stanley, J
In: Child Sexual Abuse: Justice Response or Alternative Resolution, Adelaide, 1-2 May 2003. Canberra, ACT: Australian
Institute of Criminology, 2003, 9p, Online only
This paper is based on the author's discussions with Muriel Cadd and Julian Pocock from the Secretariat of National Aboriginal
and Islander Child Care. It discusses the following issues: the extent of child sexual abuse in Indigenous communities; the
complications around understanding the problem - why it is even more difficult to understand child sexual abuse in Indigenous
communities than in the non Indigenous population; the contribution of past and present trauma experienced by Indigenous people
to the present problem of child sexual abuse; cultural clashes in child protection - how one cultural model of operating is
imposing on another cultural model of operating; and the way forward, moving beyond consultation to negotiation.
Child
sexual abuse in rural and remote Indigenous Australian communities - a preliminary investigation. (PDF 385 KB)
Coorey, Lyla.
Canberra, ACT: Department of the Senate, Parliament House, 2001, 116p, Online only
This report is a preliminary attempt to address concerns raised by indigenous people about the
prevalence of child sexual abuse in remote and rual Aboriginal communities. Though there are no recommendations
made in this report, it documents pertinent issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experiencing
sexual abuse and aims to pave the way for further research into the subject. The report outlines a number of barriers,
structural and communal, that need to be addressed, in order to improve access to appropriate services. It is also anticipated
that joint initiatives, and collaboration between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians can continue and develop.
Child sexual abuse: Offender
characteristics and modus operandi.
Smallbone, S W; Wortley, R K.
Canberra, ACT: Australian Institute of Criminology, 2001, 6p, tables (Trends and issues in crime and criminal
justice no.193), and Online (44 KB)
Public awareness and concern about child sexual abuse has increased in Australia in recent years. There is no clear
evidence, however, that the incidence of child sexual abuse itself is increasing; rather, increased reporting rates
appear partly to reflect a greater willingness by victims and others to report allegations of child
sexual abuse. Indeed, many alleged child sexual offences are not reported until long after they have occurred.
Nevertheless, there is widespread agreement that child sexual abuse is a major social problem. This paper suggests that
developmental and early intervention programs that are known to reduce rates of general crime may be equally effective
in the reduction of sexual crime.
Childhood sexual abuse: Annotated bibliography for
workers. (PDF 336 KB)
South Australia. Women's Health Statewide.
North Adelaide, SA: Women's Health Statewide, 2006, 58p, Online
This bibliography was developed to improve access by workers to resources beneficial to working with women who had been subjected
to childhood sexual abuse. Inclusion of articles and resources within the Bibliography is based on feminist
principles requiring that resources be non-pathologising, respectful to women, and address power and gender issues.
Items are listed with annotations under the following headings: practice implications (therapeutic approaches,
legal system, disclosure, vicarious traumatisation, community development/prevention programs); dominant
social discourses (mother blame, forgiveness, false memory debate, masculinities); abuse sub-groups (institutional,
ritual, sibling, men and boys, Indigenous, CALD background, elderly, disabled); perpetrators (tactics, female perperators,
treatment/therapy of offenders); effects (self harm and disordered eating, mental health, medical/dental
examinations, maternal health and wellbeing, intimate relationships, traumatic memory amd somatisation);
resilience and coping; other (websites and miscellaneous).
Child witnesses: A need for a change?
Senior, M
Bulletin (Law Society of South Australia) v.24 no.4 May 2002: 24-25
The author reports on the question of whether legislation should be amended with regard to the evidence given
by child witnesses in cases involving allegations of sexual abuse. A balance must be achieved between
protecting the child witness and maintaining the right of the accused to a fair trial. The author
looks at the English model and enquiry reports regarding pre recorded video interviews, the method
of interviewing the child witness, appropriate training of interviewers, and keeping proper records.
Children and young people engaging in sexually abusive behaviours: Understanding the issues.
Broughton, F
In: One child's reality, everyone's responsibility: proceedings, 8th Australasian Conference on Child Abuse
and Neglect. Melbourne, Vic: Department of Human Services, 2001, CD-ROM, 12p, appendix
Research shows that children and young people perpetrate up to one third of all sexual abuse against children.
The Victorian Community Council Against Violence (VCCAV) is running an 18 month project that aims to develop
recommendations toward a whole of system response to these young offenders. The author provides an overview
of the main issues raised in guided consultations with therapeutic and legal service providers including police,
magistrates, psychologists, child protection workers and lawyers, as well as with parents of children
and young people who engage in sexually abusive behaviours. She also discusses the structure of the consultations
and some of the issues that need to be considered when undertaking this kind of research.
Children's rights: Back to basics
FitzRoy, Lee
In: VCOSS Congress 2004: strategies for equality and inclusion, 4-6 August 2004. Melbourne, Vic:
Victorian Council of Social Service, 2004, 6p,
Key points emerging from recent feminist theory are offered in this paper to assist current practice
and policy responses to child victims of sexual assault. The paper discusses the following five points:
maternal ambivalence, gender bias in the human service sector, the dangers of gender neutral language, the
intersection between family violence and child abuse, the separate needs of children. The paper concludes
that although the primary responsibility for stopping sexual violence against children lies with the (chiefly)
men who commit it, the rest of the community must act to ddress the values and belief systems underpinning the
choices of those men.
Confronting cruelty: Historical perspectives on child protection in Australia.
Scott, D; Swain, S
Carlton South, Vic: Melbourne University Press, 2002, 221p, tables
In recent years child abuse has received a great deal of attention in the media. This book argues that
contrary to the impressions created by the media, child abuse has a long history. Using case records from the
Children's Protection Society and examining the changing understanding of what cruelty is, this book traces
the last 100 years of child abuse, and describes the struggle between philanthropists, social workers and
other professional groups for the right to identify and treat children who are abused. Chapters are: The
image of the child; The cry of the children has finally been heard; Launching the great crusade; Poverty is a
factor but not an excuse; Civilisation hangs in the balance; Neglect in the midst of plenty; The second wave of
the child rescue movement - the 'battered baby syndrome'; Child protection: whose rights? whose responsibilities?
Child sexual abuse: from Freud to feminism and beyond; and, The pendulum swings: a century of child protection ends.
Constructing a sense of self following early sexual experiences with adults: A qualitative research study.
Hunter, Sally V.
Psychotherapy in Australia v.13 no.4 Aug 2007: 12-21
The aim of this research project was to develop a fuller understanding of the process of constructing a sense of self following
early sexual experiences with an adult. Using narrative inquiry, a sample of twenty-two men and women aged
twenty-five to seventy were interviewed about their early sexual experiences, at the age of fifteen or
under with someone over eighteen. Participants told four different narratives about these experiences:
narratives of silence: of ongoing suffering; of transformation: and of transcendence. These four narratives have been
examined in the light of the literature relating to childhood sexual abuse, and the victim and survivor
discourses. To an extent they challenged current conventional views about child sexual abuse. The implications for
therapists working with men and women who have experienced child sexual abuse are discussed. (Journal abstract)
Court licensed abuse; patriarchal lore and the legal response to intrafamilial sexual abuse of children.
Taylor, s. Caroline
New York, NY: Peter Lang Publishing Inc., 2004, 312p
Examines flaws in the adversarial legal system through an analysis of the cross exmaination of child victims of
sexual abuse. Presents arguments on how law and psychiatry silence and blame victums of sexual assault. Six trials
are studied as textual case studies from a critical,feminist point of view. Trials are seen to enact a narrative template
that maintains a patriarchal status quo around intrafamilial child sexual abuse.
Differentiating between child maltreatment experiences.
Higgins, Daryl.
Family Matters no.69 Spring - Summer 2004: 50-55
Is differentiating between maltreatment sub types helpful in explaining outcomes for victims / survivors of child
maltreatment? Results from an analysis of parent report data and adult self report data suggest that
the degree (frequency and severity) to which young people experience abuse and neglectful behaviours is more important
than the particular sub type of maltreatment in explaining subsequent psychological problems.
Deconstructing love in the context of sexual abuse.
Mann, Sue.
International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work no.3 2004: 12-13
This reflection explores the complex realm of the experiences of women who were subjected to sexual abuse as children.
Many of the circumstances of childhood sexual abuse can contribute to considerable confusion about understandings
and experiences of love, as abuse often occurs in contexts which are described as loving. In some circumstances
the person who has abused has, on occasions, also been loving to the child. This short piece offers some reflections
on options for therapists in responding to women in these circumstances. (Journal abstract)
Effects of childhood experiences on cortisol levels in depressed adults.
Joyce, Peter R; Williamson, Samantha A H; McKenzie, Janice M; Frampton, Christopher M A; Luty, Suzanne E;
Porter, Richard J; Mulder, Roger T.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry v.41 no.1 Jan 2007: 62-65
This paper
seeks to evaluate the impact of childhood abuse and parental bonding on cortisol levels in depressed adults.
Cortisol levels were measured in 192 depressed patients. Childhood experiences of physical and sexual abuse
were ascertained by interview, and perceived parenting by self-report. The authors find that maternal affectionless
control, childhood sexual and physical abuse were all associated with cortisol levels. (Journal abstract,
edited)
Exploring the relationship between poverty, childhood adversity and child abuse from the perspective of adulthood.
Frederick, John; Goddard, Chris.
Child Abuse Review v.16 no.5 Sept - Oct 2007: 323-341
This article discusses the relationship between early childhood abuse or other adversity and later poverty in adulthood.
It reviews risk and protective factors, and family poverty as a risk factor for child abuse, and features results from a
study of emergency relief recipients in regional Victoria on their life circumstances, including experience of child
abuse, bereavement, family breakdown, foster care, and mental health. The study findings support the ideas of negative
chain effects, or pathways into poverty caused by accumulated adversity.
Facilitating transition after child sexual
abuse.
Van Loon, Antonia M; Kralik, Debbie.
Glenside, SA: Royal District Nursing Service of SA, 2005, 212p, figures, Online
A key role for service providers working with women survivors of childhood sexual abuse, particularly those who are homeless
or who have drug or alcohol addictions, is to support and facilitate their transition from a disrupted life to a more positive,
competent way of living. This resource for service providers is a companion volume to Reclaiming myself after child sexual abuse.
It describes the action research project undertaken by the Research Unit of the Royal District Nursing Service of
SA with homeless women survivors of childhood sexual abuse to find ways of capacity building that would improve the women's self care.
It explains the group work process and provides guidance and resources for facilitators of similar programs.
Factors influencing school counsellors' decision not to report child sexual abuse.
Goldman, J D G; Padayachi, U K
Children Australia v.27 no.1 2002: 28-37, tables
Using a state-wide sample of 122 school counsellors (52 males and 70 females) in Queensland Australia, factors which influenced
their decision not to report child sexual abuse were examined. These factors were a lack of evidence; lack of confidence in the
authorities to accurately evaluate or protect sexually abused children; adverse effects on the family's social
standing in the community; potential to break up the family; and the fear of breaking counsellor-client
confidentiality. Further, school counsellors were not likely to report all cases of child sexual abuse
when they suspected it, thus confirming the popular belief that child sexual abuse is under-reported
by them. (Journal abstract)
Finding a place for healing: Women survivors of childhood
sexual abuse and their experience of accessing services. (PDF 73 KB)
O'Brien, Louise; Henderson, Corinne; Bateman, Jenna.
Australian e-Journal for the Advancement of Mental Health (AeJAMH) v.6 no.2 Jul 2007, 9p, Online only
Women survivors of child sexual abuse often suffer difficulties, including a sense of insecurity, a lack
of self esteem, difficulty with relationships, poor frustration tolerance, overwhelming emotions, depression,
sensitivity to criticism and rejection, distrust, suspicion and a fragile sense of self. They may also experience
serious psychological consequences, their life trajectory often marked by chaos and complexity. In Australia,
services have been developed to meet the needs of these women. Anecdotal evidence suggests that services may
be patchy in both availability and standards. This paper presents findings of the Reframing Responses
study of non government services that relate to the experiences of women survivors of child sexual abuse
in accessing and utilising services. Fourteen women provided, through focus groups and interviews, descriptions
of their experiences of disclosure, accessing services, what was helpful, and what was unhelpful. They confirmed
a lack of availability, particularly of longer term counselling, and a lack of consistency in terms of
models and standards. (Journal abstract, edited)
For the first time somebody wants to hear: The effects
of childhood sexual abuse on women's experiences of pregnancy, birth and mothering - A research report for health professional. (PDF 312 KB)
Stojadinovic, T.
Adelaide, SA: Women's Health Statewide, Women and Children's Hospital, 2003, 83p, Online
The 'Pregnancy, Birth and Mothering' project at South Australia's Women's Health Statewide resulted from a recommendation in the 2002
'Its Still Not My Shame' report that highlighted the complexities of the survivor - health worker relationship during pregnancy,
birth and mothering. The project aimed to identify the information and resource needs of South Australian medical and allied health
workers in order to support them to develop or change their practice when working with women survivors of childhood sexual assault
during pregnancy, birth and mothering. Insights from professionals and women survivors working and living in South
Australia, along with a critical review of health literature on the issue and recommendations on future work, are presented in this report.
Four new resources for those working with survivors
of child sexual abuse.
van Loon, Anne.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.11 May 2006: 17-19, and Online
A two year capacity building participatory action research project, which worked with women survivors of childhood sexual abuse and their
service providers, is discussed. The article looks at the background to the project; the research process; the
methodology, which was based on the Look, Think and Act process; and the four new resources that were produced as outputs of the project.
Further abuse of sexually abused children.
Swanston, H Y; Parkinson, P N; Oates, R K;
O'Toole, B I; Plunkett, A M; Shrimpton, S
Child Abuse and Neglect v.26 no.2 Feb 2002: 115-127
This article reports on a study which aimed to determine the incidence of re-abuse in children known to have been sexually
abused and to find factors that increase the risk of further abuse. The study group was comprised of
183 children with substantiated sexual abuse who presented to the Child Protection Units of two Sydney
metropolitan hospitals from 1988 through 1990. Six years after presentation for the abuse, records
of the Department of Community Services were checked to see if any of the young people had been the subject
of substantiated notifications for abuse / neglect before and after intake to the study.
Helping your child: Important information for
parents and carers about the sexual assault of children. (PDF 1.92 MB)
Roberts, Margret; Milinkovic, Dianna
Sydney, NSW: Education Centre Against Violence, Western Sydney Area Health Service, 2001, 15p, illus, Online
This information package aims to help anyone involved in helping a child who is dealing with sexual assault. It contains information
about child sexual assault and its possible effects; about the professionals who treat and counsel children who have been sexually
assaulted and the professionals who investigate and prosecute the crime of sexual assault; other people's beliefs that may be encountered;
common reactions within the family to sexual assault; books for parents, children and young people which may be
useful; and where to go for help (New South Wales). There is also a section dealing with questions parents commonly ask.
Institutional processes for dealing with allegations
of child sexual abuse. (PDF 35 KB)
Altobelli, T
In: 8th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne, 12-14 February 2003: proceedings.
Melbourne, Vic: Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2003, 12p. Online only
Institutional processes for dealing with allegations of child sexual abuse, such as the Catholic Church's 'Towards Healing' statement,
fail to recognize that the public has a legitimate interest in ensuring that the processes used to investigate complaints and offer
assistance to victims are transparent, rigorous and accountable. These institutional processes inadequately balance the public interest
with the private interests belonging to the stakeholders in these claims. The need for confidentiality that is invoked in seeking to protect
private interests directly undermines public confidence in the process. Greater recognition needs to be given by institutions to the legitimacy
of the public interest, and this legitimacy needs to be reflected in the processes used. The role of such processes in educating the public
and thus having a preventative function needs also to be recognized. At the same time the public needs to recognize the legitimacy of claims
by stakeholders to use confidential processes until clear findings have been made in relation to allegations. The paper will suggest a new
model for dealing with claims within institutions arising out of allegations of sexual abuse, that moves closer to finding that
elusive balance between the public and private interests. (Author abstract)
Intrafamilial
rape and the law in Australia: Upholding the lore of the father. (PDF 348 KB)
Taylor, S C
In: Poverty, Violence and Women's Rights: Setting a Global Agenda - Townsville International
Women's Conference, July 2002 - Conference papers. Sydney, NSW: Australian Domestic Violence Clearinghouse,
2002, 30p, Online only
A detailed summary is presented in this paper of central findings of recently completed PhD
research undertaken by the author concerning intrafamilial child abuse
and the socio-legal construction of alleged victims who underwent trials
in the Victorian County Court in Australia during 1995-1996. Fourteen
complete cases were examined involving 22 trial transcripts totalling more
than 12,000 pages of transcript. The author explains that her research
sought to document and examine the maleness of law and how it
discriminates against women and child victims of sex abuse trials by
silencing their experiences and eroding their ability for individual
agency in such a process. Her analysis leads the author to conclude that
it is premature to cast aside concepts of gender discrimination and
patriarchy in law in the Australian legal system.
Is child sexual abuse declining? Evidence from a population-based survey of men and women
in Australia.
Dunne, M P; Purdie, D M; Cook, M D; Boyle, F M; Najman, J M
Child Abuse and Neglect v.27 no.2 Feb 2003: 141-152, tables, figure
The incidence of reported child sexual abuse in the United
States has declined over the past ten years. In this
study the authors examine age cohort differences
in self reported child sexual abuse cases to see
if the same rate of decline is reflected in the general
population in Australia. Methodology involved a cross-sectional,
telephone based survey of a randomly selected national
sample of men and women (876 males, 908 females).
Although they warn that a simple interpretation of
the statistics of reported abuse may obscure the
prevalence of unreported cases, the authors do believe
that a decline in child sexual abuse in the general
population in Australia is occurring.
Male survivors of sexual abuse.
Fraser, E, comp..
ISA Journal (Incest
Survivors Association) Autumn 2000: 23-45, alternate pages
Adult male survivors of childhood sexual abuse are starting to
acknowledge the impact it is having on their lives. This is the
contention of this article which discusses the effects on self esteem,
feelings, body awareness, and intimacy in childhood and adulthood and the
effects on work, the survivor's family, parenting, and sexuality in
adulthood. Myths and realities of childhood sexual abuse are examined
and ways of coping with denial and interpersonal relationships are addressed. The author's personal experience as a mother whose son was
sexually abused by his father is presented.
Moment by moment I coped: South Australian
women on the subject of childhood sexual abuse. (PDF 873 KB)
Birchmore, Kristina.
North Adelaide, SA: Women's Health Statewide, 2005, 65p, figures, tables, Online
31 South Australian women
participated in this research into the long term effects
of childhood sexual abuse. The report records and discusses
their accounts of the impact of the abuse and the coping
strategies they have employed and includes a description
of the research methodology and a literature review.
Multiple
partners for mental health. (PDF 171 KB)
Patterson, Susan.
In: Program and papers: 8th National Rural Health Conference,
10-13 March 2005, Alice Springs, Northern Territory.
Deakin, ACT: National Rural Health Alliance,
2005, 8p, tables, Online
Community based mental health services in the Eyre
Region in South outlines barriers to health service
delivery in rural and remote environments. It discusses
the particular challenge for the new service, which
needed to develop and implement a model of care that
afforded equitable access to a comprehensive mental
health service utilising existing resources. The paper
discusses partnerships, recruiting, Aboriginal social
and emotional well being, drug and alcohol services,
adult survivors of child sexual abuse, mental health
care for older people, child and youth mental health,
general practitioners, and psychosocial rehabilitation.
Outsider-witness practices in developing
community with women who have experienced child sexual assault.
Fraser, Michelle.
International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work 2006 no.3:
52-58
The West Street Centre is a community based service for women
and young people who have experienced child sexual
assault. As a feminist service, the centre is interested
in addressing the issue of child sexual assault in
forums beyond the therapy room and therapeutic group
programs. It has been committed to finding ways to
strengthen the community of women who use the service,
as well as the women who work to respond to this issue
in the community. Narrative outsider witness practices
and a number of other key feminist community development
ideas have provided a foundation for the organisation
of two community forum days over the last two years.
This paper describes these community days and the
thinking that informed them. (Journal abstract, edited)
Point last seen: A road to recovery after childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Hunter, Ricky.
Noosa Heads, Qld: Debut Publishing, 2006, 264p
The victim of abduction and sexual abuse as a child and of
domestic violence as a wife, the author recounts
her experiences, the coping strategies she developed,
and the path she followed to recovery.
Pregnancy to parenting: Issues and care for adult survivors
of child sexual abuse.
Hall, J.
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.3
Spring 2000: 21-23
A pamphlet, 'Pregnancy to parenting: a
Supportive Guide for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse', was produced as a result
of a public education seminar to mark the joint work of the
Northern Centre Against Sexual Assault and the Domestic Violence and
Incest Resource Centre. This article reports on some of the issues
raised at the seminar which focused on how childhood abuse affects the
ability to do well as a parent. These include: child sexual abuse and a
link to post natal depression; how mothers disclose abuse; and art
therapy for post natal depression.
Promoting
capacity with homeless women survivors of child sexual abuse misusing alcohol, drugs or gambling:
Final report (PDF 673 KB).
Van Loon, Antonia.
Glenside, SA: Royal District Nursing Service of SA, 2005, 115p, figures
Over 93 per cent of homeless women at Catherine House in Adelaide
reported childhood sexual abuse, with some
attributing their use of drugs, alcohol and
gambling to efforts to overcome the trauma
of sexual abuse. The aim of this study was to promote the capacity
of these women to generate personal resources
that would enable them to manage the transition
to independent living, and to achieve a healthier,
life affirming future. The study employed a participatory action research
approach. One of the outcomes was the writing of a book,
'Reclaiming myself after sexual abuse', to
explain the group process and help other
sexual abuse survivors.
Putting the picture together:
Inquiry into response by government agencies to complaints of family violence and child abuse in Aboriginal communities.
Gordon, S; Hallahan, K; Henry, D
Perth, W.A. : State Law Publisher, 2002, 642p, and Online
The inquiry into response by government agencies to complaints of family violence and child abuse in Aboriginal communities has examined
how Western Australian state government agencies respond to evidence of
family violence and child sexual abuse that may be occurring in
Aboriginal communities generally; considered current research into the
prevalence, causes and solutions to Aboriginal family violence; consulted
widely, including with representatives of Aboriginal communities, youth,
health services and related organisations; and made recommendations on
practical solutions for addressing incidents of sexual abuse in
Aboriginal communities, including any necessary legislative and
administrative measures. The report provides a full overview of the
Inquiry; of family violence and child abuse, including causality and
prevalence; of service provision by seven government agencies in WA,
against a backdrop of research on service developments in responding to
family violence and child abuse; and of findings and recommendations.
Queensland
police stings in online chat rooms.
Krone, Tony
Australian Institute of Criminology
Trends and issues in crime and justice, No. 301, 2005
This paper reports the experience of Queensland police
in the investigation of predatory behaviour by men
seeking sex with children through online chat rooms.
It reports on the 25 investigations into online grooming
completed by the Queensland Police in the period June
2003 and September 2004 under the code name Task Force
Argos, and includes a discussion of three successful
prosecutions.
Real rape: Help for women sexually assaulted by male partners.
McOrmond-Plummer, Louise.
DVIRC Quarterly (Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre) no.4 Summer 2006: 11-15
Women who are raped by their
partners are often not recognised as victims of a crime.
This article describes the author's experiences of
sexual assault by a partner, and the impact of common
myths that this is not 'real' rape. The article summarises
the research on the prevalence of partner rape, outlines
some of the problems with current service responses,
and describes a book the author wrote for women raped
by partners.
Reclaiming
myself after child sexual abuse.
Van Loon, Antonia M; Kralik, Debbie.
Glenside, SA: Royal District Nursing Service of SA, 2005, Online
An action District Nursing Service of SA with homeless
women survivors of childhood sexual abuse to find ways
of capacity building that would improve the women's
self care. This book is an outcome of the project.
The decision to write it was made by the participants
of the study, to explain the healing process to other
sexual abuse survivors and to provide guidance and
resources so that they can undertake the process themselves.
Reframing responses: Improving service provision to women survivors of child sexual
abuse who experience mental health problems.
O'Brien, Louise; Henderson, Corinne.
Auseinetter no.27 Nov 2006 (no.2): 20-21
The Reframing Responses project aimed to improve
services to female survivors of childhood sexual
abuse who experience mental health problems.
This article summarises the research on the service
needs and service usage of these women, explains
the research study design and summarises the
study recommendations.
Regarding children.
Rayner, M
Eureka Street v.12 no.3 Apr 2002: 28-29
It has been suggested that the Federal government
establish a Royal Commission to examine
child sexual abuse issues. This paper argues
that while a Royal Commission might help publicise
the issue of child sexual abuse, it would
not be an effective way to address the problem,
and would serve as a distraction from the more
important issue of establishing and defending
the rights of children. The author argues that
the government should instead provide a Children's
Rights Commissioner. Citing the Office of the
Children's Rights Commissioner for London as
an example, she suggests that this would be an
effective way of addressing child sexual abuse
by monitoring what the government does, being
accessible to children, working independently
of government yet being integral to its decision
making, advising on laws and policies, and focusing
public attention on the state of children.
Respond SA, for adult
victim/survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Sloan, Jodie; Suchting, Mailin.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.11 May 2006: 27-34,
and Online
Respond SA is a new service for
adult survivors of childhood sexual assault. In this
interview, the manager of Respond SA and a manager
at Relationships Australia discuss: the establishment
of Respond SA and its key aims and objectives; the
service delivery frameworks and models that were used
in the development of Respond SA; why survivors of
childhood sexual abuse have been under served; the
specific needs of adult survivors; whether Respond
SA could be modelled in other areas of Australia;
the research that is needed concerning the effects
of childhood sexual abuse; the services that Respond
SA offers; Respond SA's participation in the workforce
development of staff in other agencies; the evaluation
of Respond SA; and the focus of Respond SA for 2006.
Responses to sibling sexual abuse: Are they as harmful as the abuse?
Rowntree, Margaret.
Australian Social Work v.60 no.3 Sept 2007: 347-361
This paper reports on an exploratory qualitative study of 19 women on
the reactions of those the women encountered in their everyday lives -
family, professionals and community members - when they became aware that
the women were survivors of sibling sexual abuse. The study asked
whether negative attitudes towards sibling sexual abuse were as harmful
as the abuse experience. Data were collected from three focus group
discussions and taped transcripts were analysed in terms of themes in
public discourse on sibling sexual abuse. The aim of the study was to
increase understanding of the impact of people's attitudes and responses
to this phenomenon. The findings highlighted the harmful impact of
negative attitudes that are reinforced by public discourse that generally
fails to problematise the issue and the need for education in
professional, community and school settings. (Journal abstract)
Rethinking our knowledge about child sexual abuse.
Southwell, J
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.2 Winter 2003: 3-7
Surveying the historical changes and developments in
our knowledge and understanding of child
sexual abuse (CSA), the author points out that
there is no single unanimous view of what constitutes
CSA, what is wrong with it and what should be done
about it. She describes our awareness of
CSA as having grown from almost complete ignorance
30 years ago, to an understanding governed largely
by psychological and feminist constructions of
child abuse as a social problem. The author discusses
various frameworks that inform the social policy
agenda for CSA - political, social, moral and legal
- and reviews the scope of the Domestic Violence
and Incest Resource Centre's forthcoming Discussion
Paper, due for release in August 2003.
Ripple effects of sexual assault.
Morrison, Zoe; Quadara, Antonia; Boyd, Cameron.
Melbourne, Vic: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault, Australian Institute
of Family Studies, 2007, 31p (ACSSA issues no.7), and Online
The effects of sexual assault are wide reaching. As well as the
profound effects of sexual assault on victim / survivors,
a victim / survivor's family members and friends,
workers in the sexual assault field, and society as
a whole are affected by sexual assault in detrimental
and still under recognised ways. This paper uses the
term 'ripple effects' as a metaphor to describe the
effects and costs of sexual assault on a victim /
survivor's personal and professional networks, and
on the society within which they exist. It concentrates
mostly on the ripple effects of the sexual assault
of adults and is based on the findings of a literature
review.
Service profile: Incest
Survivors' Association (Western Australia).
Basham, Sandra.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.8 Jun 2005: 26-30,
and Online
The Incest Survivors' Association in Perth provides counselling
for adolescent and adult survivors of incest and other
child sexual assault. In this profile of the organisation,
the following are discussed: the origins of the organisation;
the philosophy of the service and how it differs from
mainstream sexual assault services; issues specific
to survivors of childhood sexual assault; the importance
of having a separate service for adult survivors of
childhood sexual abuse; the services the organisation
offers; the public conception of childhood sexual assault;
challenges the service faces; and lessons learned.
Sexual abuse in childhood and sexual dysfunction in adulthood: an Australian population-based study.
Najman, Jake M; Dunne, Michael P; Purdie, David M; Boyle, Francis M; Coxeter, Peter D.
Archives of Sexual Behavior v.34 no.5 Oct 2005: 517-526
Self reported sexual functioning in individuals reporting a history of
childhood sexual abuse (CSA) was examined in this
study. The study used a representative sample of
the Australian population, selecting 1793 people
between the ages of 18 and 59 from all states and territories. Approximately
one third of the age of 16. The study showed a significant
association between CSA and symptoms of sexual dysfunction
for both men and women. The results show that CSA
is common in the Australian population and contributes
to impairment in the sexual functioning of adults,
particularly women.
16 days of activism against
gender violence: Adult survivors of childhood abuse: Listen and believe community campaign and child
sexual abuse. (PDF 2.9 MB)
Stojadinovic, T.
In: Conference papers: Child sexual abuse: Justice
response or alternative resolution conference,
Adelaide, May 2003. Canberra: Australian Institute
of Criminology, 2003, 10p, ill. Online only
Women's Health Statewide South Australia, in collaboration
with other service providers, put together a campaign
to inform the community about the prevalence of
childhood sexual abuse and of the importance of
believing adults when they disclose. The Adelaide
campaign used the international 16 Days of Activism
against Gender Violence campaign to raise local
community awareness about adult survivors of sexual
abuse. The author describes the development of
the campaign and the need for different ways of
informing the community about the issue of childhood
sexual abuse and the effects it has on people's
lives. She notes that encouraging adults to speak
publicly about their experience of child sexual
abuse will open the way for children's experience
to be listened to and believed and ultimately prevented.
'Speaking of mothers most': How does the literature portray
mothers who have a history of child sexual abuse?
Breckenridge, Jan.
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse v.15 no.2 2006: 57-74
The way the literature presents mothers who have a history of child sexual abuse is explored.
The paper focuses on research that examines the mothers' parenting after
the disclosure of their child's sexual abuse. It discusses the
intergenerational transmission of risk of child sexual assault, the
competency and capacity of mothers with a history of child sexual abuse
to parent and support their children, and disclosure and increased stress
for non offending parents.
Speaking Out.
Central Coast Community Women's Health Centre Ltd.
NSW:Central Coast Community Women's Health Centre, 2004, 1 video (43 min), 1 booket/discussion guide
The journeys of five adult survivors of child sexual abuse are followed as the program takes the
audience through processes of counselling and healing. The film uses
song, dialogue and flashback scenes to give voice to the stories, and
identifies ways survivors can seek support through friends, counsellors
and group work. The project aims to raise community awareness of child
sexual abuse and encourage survivors to seek support and assistance.
Show me the child at seven: The consequences of conduct
problems in childhood for psychosocial functioning in adulthood.
Fergusson, David M; Horwood, L John; Ridder, Elizabeth M.
Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry v.46 no.8 Aug 2005: 837-849, tables
Research has suggested that early onset conduct problems are a
developmental precursor to a wide range of adverse outcomes, such as
crime, substance use, school difficulties, mental health problems,
suicidal behaviours, unemployment and teenage pregnancy. This study,
which uses data from a 25 year longitudinal study of New Zealand young
people, investigated associations between conduct problems in middle
childhood and psychosocial outcomes in adulthood.
Sneaking up on traumatic memory: The use of creative metaphors with child sexual assault.
Morwood, S
Psychotherapy in Australia v.8 no.4 Aug 2002: 40-44
To revisit or not to revisit - that is the dilemma
facing trauma counsellors, especially when children are concerned. No one
likes talking, about sexual assault, domestic violence, or traumatic
loss, but how does one help a hurting child to move forward without
talking about their hurt? In this article the author describes a
technique that walks a middle path between the extremes of avoidance and
immersion that characterize exposure therapy. (Journal abstract)
Surviving the legal system: A handbook for adult and child sexual assault survivors
and their supporters.
Taylor, Caroline S.
Port Melbourne, Vic: Coulomb Communications, 2004, 196p
This book provides information on the criminal justice system's
dealing with sexual assault and child abuse cases in
a handbook form for survivors of sexual asssault, rape
and child abuse. Information about how to deal with
police and the court system as well as the procedures,
strategies and tactics of defence baristers in sexual
offence trials is presented in an accessable languge
and format.
The experiences of child complainants of
sexual abuse in the criminal justice system. (PDF 407 KB)
Eastwood, C; Patton, W
Canberra, ACT: Criminology Research Council, 2002, 148p, and Online
This study focuses on the experiences of child complainants of sexual abuse across three jurisdictions: Queensland,
New South Wales and Western Australia. Specifically, the research examined the experiences of child complainants
in the criminal justice system as well as the consequences of their involvement in the process. In-depth interviews
with children were combined with data gathered from parents, crown prosecutors, defence lawyers, court support
personnel and members of the judiciary. On the individual level, the discussion analyses the significant
processes in the criminal justice process for child complainants. On the systemic level, the implications for
legislators and legal practitioners is presented. From a theoretical perspective, the report examines why
decades of reform have achieved limited gains for Australian children, and why the criminal justice system
remains the legally sanctioned context for the abuse of children.
The
evidence for sexual assault counselling with children. (DOC 149 KB)
Palmer, M; Lamb, R; Katakouzinos, N
In: What works? Evidence based practice in
child and family Services - ACWA conference, September
2002, proceedings. Bondi Beach, NSW: Association
of Childrens Welfare Agencies, 2002, 6p, figures,
Online only
The concept of Evidence Based Practice has prompted much
discussion and questioning of the effectiveness of counselling or therapy
in relation to children who have experienced sexual assault. This paper
reflects on the research literature in relation to child sexual assault
treatment outcomes and the practice experience of The Children's Hospital
at Westmead Child Protection Unit. Sexual abuse outcome literature and
treatment effectiveness literature demonstrates few consistent
relationships between sexual abuse events and outcomes or effects for
children. Clinical experience demonstrates a variety of meanings
attributed to events by children and their care givers which need to be
understood in the context of each family. To accommodate both of these
issues, assessment and treatment programs for children who have
experienced abuse need to be flexible and responsive to the needs and
experiences of individual children and their families. Indications are
that current concepts of evidence, particularly when drawn from models of
evidence based medicine are inadequate to the complexities of counselling
practice. The implications for service delivery and developing relevant
clinical evidence to support accountable and effective practice are
discussed. (Author abstract, edited)
The forgotten Australians.
Harrison,
Eris.
Family (Families Australia) no.8 Sept 2007:
17
The Alliance for Forgotten Australians (AFA) is a
project supported by Families Australia, set up to support those people
who were neglected or abused as children in Australian institutional or
out of home care between 1930 and 1970. These adult survivors were
dubbed 'forgotten Australians' in the 2004 Senate Community Affairs
References Committee's Inquiry report. The AFA was formed in 2006. It
is establishing objectives and operating protocols to govern its work of
promoting the interests of the Forgotten Australians. Part of its
activities will be directed at educating health providers and other
service providers about the history, experiences, issues and current
needs of the Forgotten Australians.
The health consequences of child sexual abuse and partner abuse for women attending general practice.
Hegarty, K.
Australian Family Physician
v.32 no.9 Sept 2003: 760, table
Child sexual abuse and
domestic violence are common, although hidden, problems, for women
attending general practice. Studies have shown that despite high levels
of abuse, less than 50 percent of women have disclosed abuse to a general
practitioner. With recent evidence indicating that women who have been
victims of child sexual or partner abuse being at an increased risk of
developing cervical cancer, the author argues that there is a need for
further research.
The questions posed by our work with women who have
experienced sexual abuse.
Mann, Sue.
International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work
no.4 2004: 3-12
This paper is one in a series by the
author focusing on complex and challenging questions that arise in work
with women who have experienced sexual abuse as children. In this paper
the author describes the principles which shape her approach in this
work, as well as responses to questions about sex work and sexual
identity that have arisen in her conversations with women. (Journal
abstract, edited)
The 'towers of silence' still stand: Protecting the
perpetrator.
Schlunke, J
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy v.24 no.2
Jun 2003: 88-94
This paper explores the idea that professionals in the arena of child
sexual abuse can be induced to respond irrationally, through their wish
to protect child victims. I examine why child victims of serious sexual
assault are treated as the alleged perpetrator should be. That is, when
the family unit cannot give the child a safe environment, the child (not
the alleged perpetrator) is removed. I argue for a systems focus, examining
how each section of the protective industry: lawyers, CSV protective workers,
therapists and consultants can contribute to perpetuating and sustaining
child abuse. The article is written in a style that plays on the boundaries
between academic article and fiction to heighten the effect of my case
material. (Journal abstract)
Therapeutic journeys: Working with complex
clients: unravelling the chaos.
Mount Lawley, WA: Sushi
Productions, 2006, 1 DVD (39 min.) + notes
This
counselling role play explores several issues including anxiety,
substance use, child rearing, suicide risk, relationship difficulties,
financial problems and past sexual abuse. The video and the accompanying
training notes aim to help viewers explore effective counselling
strategies that support the client, explore the presenting problem, look
at the broader picture, assess risk, offer the client a positive
perspective, address underlying belief systems and move forward.
Therapists are socially constructed too.
Hunter, Sally; Kottler, Jeffrey A.
Psychotherapy in Australia v.13 no.2 Feb 2007: 22-27
Therapists are trained to view their clients' lives, behaviours and
experiences as socially constructed through the influence of their
families, and the social, cultural, and political contexts in which they
live. However, within this framework what can be forgotten is that
therapists are socially constructed too, and are just as influenced by
societal and cultural beliefs as their clients. The authors examine this
phenomenon though the use of a case study within the context of childhood
sexual abuse. Implications for the practice, teaching, and supervision of
therapy are discussed. (Journal abstract)
Treating the long-term effects of childhood maltreatment: A
brief overview.
Briere, John.
Psychotherapy in Australia v.10 no.3 May 2004: 12-18
The psychological treatment of abuse effects is likely to be complex
and require specialized skills and information. John Briere outlines the
central principles of the 'self-trauma model', a therapeutic approach to
child abuse-related issues in adults. This perspective calls upon
cognitive-behavioral and relational research and theory to address the
many cognitive, emotional, behavioral and interpersonal effects of child
maltreatment. The critical balance between exposure to traumatic history
and the consolidation of safety and stability is explored. Implicit to this model is the importance during trauma processing of internal (or
'self') capacities such as the skills of affect tolerance and affect
modulation. Some clients may require extensive 'self-work' before any
significant trauma-focused interventions can occur. (Journal
abstract)
What have we said? What have we done?
Lehmann, Jennifer; Redshaw, Larraine.
Children Australia v.30 no.3 2005: 4-9
The
thirtieth year of the journal, Children Australia, offers an opportunity
to reflect on the efforts of those who have contributed to the field of
child, youth and family welfare, and also to provide an overview of what
the journal has had to say over the years. The authors outline the
publication's role in bringing together research, theoretical
perspectives and practice experience, as well as providing the base from
which some of Australia's important child welfare developments can be
shared and tracked over the year.
Who can a man tell? Information for men who were sexually
assaulted as children.
Roberts, M; Hudson,
E.
Parramatta, NSW: Education Centre Against
Violence, 2nd ed., 2000, 28p
This booklet is intended for
men who experienced child sexual assault and abuse and for their
relatives and friends. It contains four stories showing men at different
stages of coming to terms with the abuse, and which highlight some of the
issues and emotions these men experienced. Some facts and figures about
child sexual assault of boys are then presented, as well as discussion on
the effects of child sexual assault, the process of speaking out about
child sexual assault, the nature of male victims, and where to get help.
International publications
Accounts of innocence: Sexual abuse,
trauma, and the self.
Davis, Joseph E.
The University of
Chicago Press, c2005.
"[This book] offers a new and empirically rich
perspective on the question of why we now place
such psychological significance on victimization
in people's lives. Focusing on the case of adult
survivors of childhood sexual abuse, [the author]
shows how the idea of innocence shaped the emergence
of trauma psychology and informs accounts of the
past and hopes for the future in therapy with survivor
clients."--Book jacket
Adulthood depression, anxiety, and trauma
symptoms: A comparison of women with nonabusive,
abusive, and absent father figures in childhood.
Downs, William R. and Rindels, Barb.
Violence andƒ Victims; Vol. 19, no. 6, Dec.
2004, pp. 659-671
This article reports on a study of
women with nonabusive fathers, abusive fathers
and an absent father. It then compares the
women on a series of mental health measures.
Women with an absent father reported significantly
lower mean scores on measures of anxiety, depression
and trauma than women who reported abusive
fathers.
Adult female victims of child sexual
abuse: Multitype maltreatment and disclosure
characteristics related to subjective health.
Jonzon, Eva. and Lindblad, Frank.
Journal of Interpersonal Violence; Vol. 20, no. 6,
June 2005, pp. 651-666.
This study investigated the association
between the timing of childhood sexual abuse
disclosure and adult mental health. Findings
indicated that a positive and supportive
reaction to the disclosure was associated
with less mental illness.
Child sexual abuse: Learning from the
past.
Zorza, Joan.
Sexual Assault Report; Vol. 8, no. 3, Jan./Feb. 2005,
pp.35-38, 43.
This article examines the many myths
that surround the sexual abuse of both adults
and children. Some of the myths go back more
than one hundred years. The author concludes
by suggesting that it is time to start objecting
to all of these misogynist myths, especially
when they are raised in court cases. It is
then up to the other side to defend them if
they can.
Childhood sexual abuse and multiple dimensions
of self-concept.
Murthi, Meera; Servaty-Seib,
Heather L. and Elliott, Ann N..
Journal of Interpersonal Violence; Vol. 21,
no.8, August 2006, pp.982-999
This article examines the relationship betwen
child sexual abusers and self-concept in
a nonclinical sample of female college students.
Childhood sexual abuse patterns, psychosocial
correlates, and treatment outcomes among adults
in drug abuse treatment.
Boles, Sharon M., …[et al].
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse; Vol. 14, no. 1, 2005,
pp. 39-55.
The effects of childhood sexual abuse
(CSA) on treatment outcomes for substance abuse
are examined in this article. A history CSA
was associated with a range of negative life
experiences of the participants. When these
correlates were controlled for a history of
CSA was associated with negative treatment
outcomes.
Counselling adult survivors of child
sexual abuse.
Sanderson, Christina.
London : Jessica Kingsley
Publishers, 3rd ed., 447p, 2006.
The revised and expanded third
edition of this text provides comprehensive
coverage of the theory and practice of counselling
survivors of child sexual abuse. Additional
new material examines how trauma models explain
and describe the impact of CSA, and considers
CSA in relation to post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD) and other trauma reactions.
Framing abuse: Media influence and public
understanding of sexual violence against children.
Kitzinger, Jenny.
London : Pluto, 2004, x, 236 p.
"This book offers fascinating insights into how the
media shape the way we think. Combining in depth analysis
with interviews with 500 journalists, campaigners,
abuse survivors and a cross section of 'the public',
[the author] explores the media's role in contemporary
society."--Book jacket
From child sexual abuse to adult sexual
risk: Trauma, revictimization, and intervention.
edited
by Koenig, Linda J. ... [et al.]
Washington, DC : American Psychological
Association, c2003.
This book examines the effect of child sexual abuse
on adult sexual health outcomes in men and women,
including unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted
diseases, HIV infection, and adult sexual violence.
Chapters identify the theory and research-based cognitive,
affective, social and behavioural consequences of
trauma that influence sexual risk behaviour in adulthood.
Gift for life: From researching to responding to women who were raped during the Rwandan genocide. An interview with Elizabeth Rugege.
(2007). Rugege, E. International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, 1, 56-59.
Gift for Life is a project supporting women who survived sexual violence during the Rwandan genocide. This interview describes the work of the project, its history and the thinking that informs it. The project provides financial, social and counselling support to the women it helps.
Helping mothers move forward: A workbook
to help provide assessment and support to
the safe carers of children who have been
sexually assaulted.
Regan, Lynda.
Lyme Regis [England] :
Russell House, 2006.
"Offering tried and tested approaches for
work with safe carers of children who have been
sexually abused - principally but not exclusively
mothers - this workbook allows you to adapt
and evolve its framework during both the investigative
and recovert stages of their individual experiences."--Back
cover.
Prevalence and predictors of dating violence
among adolscent female victims of child
sexual abuse.
Cyr, Mireille; McDuff, Pierre and Wright,
John.
Journal of Interpersonal Violence; Vol. 21, no.8, August
2006, pp.1000-1017
The purpose of this study was to advance knowledge
of dating violence behaviours among adolescent victims
of child sexual abuse, first by determining the prevalence
of psychological and physical dating violence and the
reciprocity of violence, and second, by investigating
the influence of certain child sexual abuse characteristics
to dating violence.
Self-destructive and delinquent behaviours
of adolescent female victims of child sexual
abuse: Rates and covariates in clinical and
nonclinical samples.
Wright, John., …[et al].
Violence and Victims; Vol. 19, no. 6, Dec.
2004, pp. 627-643.
This study looked at the prevalence
of self-destructive and delinquent behaviors
in adolescent girls. It was found that girls
who were substantiated victims of sexual abuse,
along with girls who self reported abuse, were
significantly more likely to report at-risk
behaviors than nonabused girls.
Sexual abuse in childhood and interpersonal violence in adulthood: A
cumulative impact on depressive symptoms in women.
McGuigan, William M. and Middlemiss, Wendy.
Journal of Interpersonal Violence ; Vol. 20, no. 10, Oct, 2005, pp. 1271-1387.
This article explores the cumulative impact of childhood sexual abuse and
adult violence on depression in a sample of African American women. Women
who were victims of both forms of abuse and those who experienced greater
stress in everyday life reported higher levels of depression. Women who
experienced higher levels of family support and a sense of personal
mastery reported lower depressive symptoms.
Stolen tomorrows: Understanding
and treating women's childhood sexual abuse.
Levenkron, Steven, 1941-
New York : W.W. Norton, c2007.
"[The author] relates, through over a dozen case
studies, various kinds of abuse, from one-time
incidents with strangers to recurring abuse at the
hands of close relatives; the different psychological
manifestations of the abuses later in life, including
psychological disorders and destructive behaviors
such as anorexia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and
self-mutilation; and the variety of approaches he
and his patients used to face up to the reality of
the abuse and overcome it. In the second half of the
book, he draws general conclusions and explains the
relationship between the initial abuse and the problem
that brings the patient to therapy later in life.
He outlines the preparations therapists need to make
when dealing with a victim of childhood abuse and
guides them through the stages of therapy that may
be necessary. And finally, [he] encourages the victims
themselves to seek help, instructing them on finding
the right therapist and getting the most out of "the
talking cure."--Book
jacket.
The psychological consequences of sexual trauma
Yuan, N.P., Koss, M.P. and Stone, M. 2006.
Harrisburg, PA: VAWnet, a project of the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence/Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
This document describes current research findings on the effects of childhood and adulthood sexual victimization on women's mental health. Existing data on understudied communities and risk factors for mental health problems are discussed.
The relationship of childhood sexual abuse to the marital attitudes and
readiness for marriage of single young adult women.
Larson, Jeffry H. and LaMont, Craig.
Journal of Family Issues; Vol. 26, no. 4, 2005, pp. 415-430.
In a study of 622 American women this study found that a history childhood
sexual abuse was related to negative attitudes and feelings about
marriage. It was also associated with less readiness for marriage and
longer waiting periods before marriage.
The role of shame in predicting adult anger and depressive symptoms among
victims of child psychological maltreatment.
Harper, Felicity W. K. and Arias, Ileana.
Journal of Family Violence; Vol. 19, no. 6, 2004, pp. 367-375.
The role of shame in child psychological abuse and its association with
adult anger and depression are examined in this article. Findings
indicated gender related differences in outcomes.
The roles of peritraumatic dissociation,
child physical abuse, and child sexual abuse
in the development of posttraumatic stress disorder
and adult victimization.
Hetzel, Melanie D. and McCanne, Thomas R.
Child Abuse and Neglect; Vol. 29, no. 8, Aug,
2005, pp. 915-930.
This study investigated the effects of childhood physical
and sexual abuse and peritraumatic dissociation on
posttraumatic stress disorder and adult victimization.
The study concluded that different types of childhood
abuse may lead to different adult problems.
Victimisation during childhood and revictimisation
in dating relationships in adolescent girls.
Gagne, M.H., Lavoie, F. & Hebert, M.
Child
Abuse & Neglect, vol.29, no.10, 2005, pp.1155-1172.
This study examined the revictimisation experiences
of survivors of childhood trauma. Adolescent
girls who had experienced extrafamilial violent
or sexual abuse were more likely to be involved
in date victimisation. Differences between repeat
victimisation in a single long-term relationship
and revictimisation by different partners were
noted.
Victims no longer: The classic guide
for men recovering from sexual child abuse.
Lew, Mike.
New York : Quill, 2nd ed., 421p, 2004.
This self-help book for male survivors of
child sexual abuse discusses the nature of child abuse,
its repercussions on trust and intimacy, and the concepts
of masculinity and sexuality. It explains the benefits
and processes of counselling, and introduces steps
to recovery.