Journal of Trauma & Treatment

Families' and Victims' Characteristics Influencing Child Sexual Abuse

Abstract

Mona Hassan, Cheryl Killion, Linda Lewin, Vicken Totten and Gary Faye

The purpose: Child sexual abuse is considered an important national public health problem that must be addressed with a sense of urgency. This paper was to provide a comprehensive information on the child and family characteristics which may influence the vulnerability of child sexual abuse.
Recent findings: Underreporting of child sexual abuse may be due to family’s and children’s and their families’ characteristics. These include their demographics and personal characteristics.
Summary: The important role of healthcare providers as well as parents to be aware of children’s and families’ characteristics which may influence child sexual abuse. It is discussed along with implications for praxis.