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Succeeding with Nonoffending Caregivers of Sexually Abused Children
Length: 1.5 Hours
Child sexual abuse continues to be a significant societal problem. Children’s disclosure of abuse and their degree of recovery are associated with the level of support they receive from professionals as well as their caregivers. While the forensic interview is a critical tool for gathering information in child sexual abuse cases, nonoffending caregivers are integral to the effective investigation and treatment of child victims of sexual abuse. By definition nonoffending caregivers have not sexually abused or directly participated in the abuse of their children. However, nonoffending caregivers are often scrutinized regarding their children’s sexual abuse. Common reactions caregivers frequently express after a disclosure of child sexual abuse are often misinterpreted by professionals. Issues of parental culpability, beliefs, and support in cases of child sexual abuse as well as intergenerational recidivism are discussed.
Culturally sensitive investigations and interventions are not only important for successful outcomes but the long-term welfare of the child and family. Effectively engaging caregivers and offering them with the necessary resources and services allows them to make decisions that can safeguard their child’s future. Implications for research, practice and policy are discussed.
Objectives: After this training, attendees will be able to:
- Attendees will be able to identify caregiver reactions to learning about their child’s sexual abuse and ways to respond.
- Attendees will be able to recognize the importance of integrating caregivers for effective investigation and treatment.
- Attendees will be able to identify cultural differences as crucial for establishing a supportive relationship with caregivers and it’s contribution to the caregiver’s ability to support their children.
Dr. Viola Vaughan-Eden, PhD, MJ, MSW, Associate Professor and PhD Program Director, Leadership Council on Child Abuse and Interpersonal Violence
Dr. Viola Vaughan-Eden is a Professor and the PhD Program Director at the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work at Norfolk State University. She is also the President and CEO of UP For Champions, a non-profit in partnership with The UP Institute, a think tank for upstream child abuse solutions. As a clinical and forensic social worker, she serves as a consultant and expert witness in child maltreatment cases – principally sexual abuse. Dr. Vaughan-Eden lectures nationally and internationally on child and family welfare to multidisciplinary groups of professionals.
