Helping Children to Tell About Sexual Abuse

Chapter 1: Introduction. Chapter 2: Child sexual abuse and its impact. Chapter 3: Containing the secret. What we know about child abuse disclosure. Chapter 4: Believing children. Chapter 5: Recognising the signs. Chapter 6: Asking questions. Chapter 7: Understanding self-blame and shame. Chapter 8: Helping friends tell. Chapter 9: After first disclosure.

This highly accessible and practical book not only focuses on enhancing awareness of CSA, but most importantly how to facilitate conversations with children to help them disclose and talk about abuse, and how to respond effectively. Key messages at the end of each chapter and the focus on personal qualities of professionals that help promote trust in children that have been betrayed, are invaluable in helping all those working with children and young people to provide a non-judgemental and respectful environment in which children can break the silence, secrecy and shame of abuse. This book is a welcome addition to understanding CSA and an indispensable tool for all those working with children and who are committed to giving them a voice.