Citation

Herbert CP. Child Abuse Negl. 1987; 11(2): 201-211.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1987, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe the role of the physician as part of the investigative team in child sexual abuse both in corroborating previously obtained disclosures and in determining the level of probability of sexual abuse where there has been no disclosure. At retrospective chart audit, history of physical and behavioral symptoms and physical and laboratory findings suggestive of child sexual abuse were correlated with allegations where known in order to classify 63 patients as to probability of sexual abuse. In this study 14.3% of cases were "unfounded" based on available evidence while 65% were "probable" or "determined." The remainder were "uncertain." Of 16 patients with physical signs, in 11 cases physical findings corroborated suspicion of child sexual abuse. The need for a systematic approach to the "directed medical interview" and examination, preferably videotaped, is discussed. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Child Abuse & Neglect, 1987. Copyright © 1987 by Elsevier Science)

Abuse Detection
Medical Evaluation
Public Health Personnel
Child Sexual Abuse Victim
Child Victim
Child Abuse Victim
Sexual Assault Victim
Child Victim
06-03