In fiscal year 1984, Alaska had 3.4 reported cases of child sexual abuse per 1,000 children, with 1.9 being substantiated. Nationwide there were 1.2 reported cases per 1,000 children, with 0.7 being substantiated. The sexually abused child tends to be older (12 to 17 years old) than other maltreated children and is predominately a white female. Some of the long-term effects of sexual abuse on the victim are guilt, depression, lowered self-esteem, sexual maladjustment, and retarded physical and intellectual development. Treatment includes homemaker and day care respite services, counseling, out-of-home placement, and court action. Offenders vary widely in their criminal histories, age, socioeconomic background, personality, psychiatric diagnosis, race, and religion. They are predominately males familiar to the child. A substantial number of offenders begin their sexually abusive behavior during their adolescence. Chronic sex offenders cannot be cured, but their deviant behavior can be controlled and reduced when the offender is properly evaluated, placed, and treated in a manner that meets his needs. Successful treatment requires that the offender wants to change. 3 tables, 1 figure, and 14 footnotes.