Sexual abuse prevention: a training program for developmental disabilities service providers.
Persons with developmental disabilities are at an increased risk for becoming victims of sexual abuse. Research has revealed that the largest group of identified perpetrators of sexual abuse is developmental disability service providers. The purpose of the present study was to develop, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of a sexual abuse prevention training program. Participants were administered a survey assessing knowledge and attitudes before and after the training workshop. Small improvements in knowledge and attitudes about sexual abuse and the sexuality of persons with developmental disabilities were found; however, ge-neral attitudes about individuals with developmental disabilities did not change. Suggestions for future directions in this area are provided.
Bowman
Rachel A
RA
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202, USA. BowmanRachelA@uams.edu
Scotti
Joseph R
JR
Morris
Tracy L
TL
D000328:Adult; D002658:Developmental Disabilities; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012742:Sex Offenses / Q000517:prevention & control*