ABSTRACT
This study sought to verify if a history of maltreatment may predict the psychosocial profile of children who participated in an intervention program aiming at reducing sexual behavior problems. Data were collected at both the beginning and the end of the intervention program using a clinical protocol and standardized tests selected on the basis of the intervention targets. In general, the results indicate that children who had experienced maltreatment display a psychosocial profile that is similar to that of children who had not experienced maltreatment. However, children who had experienced psychological abuse or neglect may display greater externalized or sexualized behaviors, whereas children who have a parent who had been a victim of sexual abuse may display fewer sexualized behaviors.
Subject(s)
Adult Survivors of Child Abuse/psychology , Child Abuse/psychology , Parents/psychology , Sexual Behavior/psychology , Child , Female , Humans , Male , Risk FactorsABSTRACT
The purpose of this research is to examine the evolution of children with problematic sexual behaviour following their participation in a group treatment program. The sample was made up of 43 children (33 boys and 10 girls) with an average age of 9 years, 7 months (SD = 1.85) The evolution of the children is measured administering behavioural rating instruments, both before and after the treatment program, on multiple dimensions of problematic sexual behaviour, externalizing and internalizing problems and social skills. The actual level of the children's participation is documented. The results indicate improvement for a significant portion of the children treated, particularly for those with problematic sexual behaviour, internalizing problems and social skills. This study highlights that treatment group might be a relevant choice of treatment modality.
