Citation

Everson MD, Boat BW. Child Abuse Negl. 1994; 18(2): 113-129.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1994, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Through an extensive review of guidelines and protocols on the use of anatomical dolls in sexual abuse evaluations, seven functional uses of the dolls were identified: Comforter, Icebreaker, Anatomical Model, Demonstration Aid, Memory Stimulus, Diagnostic Screen, and Diagnostic Test. These functional uses are discussed in light of several criticisms that have been raised about the use of anatomical dolls in sexual abuse evaluations. The relevancy of these criticisms is shown to vary greatly by doll use. As a result, the authors argue that any critique of anatomical dolls must consider the specific function the dolls serve in the evaluation. Although there seem to be widespread perceptions in both lay and professional circles that young children's behavior with the dolls is commonly used to make definitive diagnoses of sexual abuse (Diagnostic Test Use), such a use of the dolls was not endorsed by any of the guidelines reviewed and is open to significant criticism. The most common criticisms of the dolls, that they are overly suggestive to young, sexually naive children, is not supported by available research. Finally, the continued, informed use of anatomical dolls in sexual abuse evaluations of young children is strongly supported. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Child Abuse & Neglect, 1994. Copyright © 1994 by Elsevier Science)

Child Sexual Abuse Victim
Child Victim
Child Abuse Assessment
Child Sexual Abuse Assessment
Sexual Assault Victim
Sexual Assault Assessment
Child Abuse Victim
Anatomically Correct Dolls
Victim Assessment
01-05