The focus is on clinical issues and research information that is currently available. Research is cited to indicate that many social and family problems may have their origins in sexual abuse. These problems include substance abuse, depressive disorders, suicidal behavior, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and teenage pregnancy. Research also indicates that numerous behavioral indicators are associated with childhood sexual abuse, such as regressive behaviors, sleep disturbances, persistent and inappropriate sexual play, detailed and precocious understanding of sexual behavior before it is age- appropriate, acting out behaviors, depression, low self- esteem, and fear of or reduced interaction with members of the sex of the perpetrator. Information needs in the field of child sexual abuse are discussed, as well as directions for future research and intervention. Research needs concern differences between victims who do not show symptoms and those who do; differences between male and female victims; relationships among various types of family violence and interactions among psychological, physical, and sexual forms of abuse; clinical interview techniques for use in child sexual abuse cases; differences between investigative and supportive therapy interviews; ritualized abuse; and child abuse prevention. Goals of the Journal of Child Sexual Abuse are noted. 71 references