Sexually Abused Children Suffering From Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: Assessment and Treatment Strategies
Authors: King N.J.; Heyne D.1; Tonge B.J.2; Mullen P.2; Myerson N.2; Rollings S.2; Ollendick T.H.3
Source: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Volume 32, Number 1, 2003 , pp. 2-12(11)
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Abstract:
Child sexual abuse is a highly prevalent problem that frequently occasions the onset of post-traumatic stress disorder in the victimized youngster. This selective review addresses recent advances in the assessment and treatment of sexually abused children with post-traumatic stress disorder. Firstly, we outline the diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder and significant moderating variables in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder. Secondly, we address the clinical assessment of post-traumatic stress disorder in sexually abused children, recommending a developmentally sensitive, multi-informant approach. Thirdly, we consider a family-wide cognitive-behavioural treatment framework for sexually abused children with post-traumatic stress disorder that involves both child and non-offending caregivers. Fourthly, we examine the results of recent evaluation studies supportive of cognitive-behavioural therapy in the treatment of sexually abused children. Lastly, we consider conclusions for clinical practice and directions for future research.Keywords: children; post-traumatic stress disorder; sexual abuse; treatment
Document Type: Research article
Affiliations: 1: Victorian Child Psychiatry Training Department, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia 2: Centre for Developmental Psychiatry and Psychology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia 3: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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