Specific treatment needs of physically and sexually abused children and their abusers

July 2004

Is there a published resource that addresses the specific treatment needs of physically and sexually abused children and their abusers?

The Child and Family Service Reviews reflected a major gap in the demand for and availability of treatment for children who have been physically and sexually abused. Practitioners in need of a composite, authoritative reference on effective treatments for child physical and sexual abuse victims and offenders now have a resource. Child Physical and Sexual Abuse: Guidelines for Treatment is the product of a multi-year effort by nationally recognized treatment professionals. The guidelines, published in January 2003, share the latest information about mental health treatment possessing:

A theoretically sound base
Supportive clinical-anecdotal literature
High acceptance among child abuse professionals
Empirical support for use with abuse victims

The Guidelines explain what is known about 24 treatment approaches in three categories (child-focused, family-focused, and offender-focused). Each treatment approach includes a description of its theoretical basis, components, empirical support, and reference materials. The treatments are also rated, which helps practitioners determine which treatments are strongly supported. However, treatments that have been most thoroughly researched are those that have a cognitive behavioral base. They are most likely to be effective or evidence based. This reference may be accessed on-line at: http://www.musc.edu/cvc/

Technical Assistance Partnership for Child and Family Mental Health

Child Welfare Frequently Asked Questions

July 2004

Home About Us About Systems of Care Contact Us Events & Presentations Newsletter Consultant Pool Special Topics Column Grantee Locator Webinars Resource Specialties Child Welfare Education Family Involvement Juvenile Justice Mental Health Primary Care Substance Abuse Sustainability Youth Involvement Regional Technical Assistance Region I Region II Region III Region IV Region V Region VI Communities of Practice Cultural and Linguistic Competence Early Childhood Transition-Aged Youth	Child Welfare Frequently Asked Questions
	July 2004 Is there a published resource that addresses the specific treatment needs of physically and sexually abused children and their abusers? The Child and Family Service Reviews reflected a major gap in the demand for and availability of treatment for children who have been physically and sexually abused. Practitioners in need of a composite, authoritative reference on effective treatments for child physical and sexual abuse victims and offenders now have a resource. Child Physical and Sexual Abuse: Guidelines for Treatment is the product of a multi-year effort by nationally recognized treatment professionals. The guidelines, published in January 2003, share the latest information about mental health treatment possessing: A theoretically sound base Supportive clinical-anecdotal literature High acceptance among child abuse professionals Empirical support for use with abuse victims The Guidelines explain what is known about 24 treatment approaches in three categories (child-focused, family-focused, and offender-focused). Each treatment approach includes a description of its theoretical basis, components, empirical support, and reference materials. The treatments are also rated, which helps practitioners determine which treatments are strongly supported. However, treatments that have been most thoroughly researched are those that have a cognitive behavioral base. They are most likely to be effective or evidence based. This reference may be accessed on-line at: http://www.musc.edu/cvc/