The effect of child sexual abuse allegations/ investigations on the mother/child relationship.
In alleged sexual abuse cases, the mother's efforts to provide a protective environment, including detecting signs of abuse and providing support subsequent to abuse, are critical to the child's well-being. This qualitative study, using two focus groups with 10 participants, examines changes in the mother/child relationship after disclosures of sexual abuse of preschoolers. Mother/child relationships were affected by suspicions and discovery of child sexual abuse in the following categories: interference of investigators, behavior problems in the child, parental exhaustion from increased demands, and parenting insecurity. Suggestions for further research and intervention implications are discussed.
Plummer
Carol A
CA
School of Social Work, Louisiana State University, USA.
Eastin
Julie
J
D000328:Adult; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual / Q000523:psychology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009034:Mother-Child Relations; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology*; D033262:Narration; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014342:Truth Disclosure