Project Description

Subject Summary, December 2009
Author: Jane Gilgun

Persons who sexually abuse are out of touch with their own emotions and the emotions of others, are emotionally disconnected from others, and hold beliefs of entitlement to take what they want regardless of consequences for others and themselves.

Persons who recover from the effects of being sexually abused have many positive factors in their lives that help them cope with, adapt to, and overcome the effects of being sexually abused. In general, survivors who thrive are emotionally expressive, have confidant relationships, associate with pro-social peers, have the desire and resources to emulate pro-social persons, have a sense of competence and pleasure in everyday activities, and have a sense of positive future.

These findings provide the basis for comprehensive child sexual abuse prevention programs and guidelines for practice.

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CASCW’s subject summaries were developed by affiliated faculty within the School of Social Work from 2004–2010. Child welfare-relevant evaluation findings, which include current policies and practices affecting Title IV-E eligible families and children, are incorporated into these supplemental training materials.

Each Subject Summary contains features such as discussion questions, selected references, additional resources, suggested guest speakers and a PowerPoint presentation.