NCJ Number
165086
Journal
Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma Issue: 1 Dated: (1997) Pages: 259-270
Date Published
1997
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Although sex play is part of normal childhood development, some sexual activity may be coerced or forced, may have negative long-term consequences, and may be considered abusive; further, childhood sexual abuse perpetrated by siblings, cousins, or peers has received relatively little attention from either researchers or practitioners.
Abstract
The literature on sibling child sexual abuse is critically reviewed, with particular attention focused on defining sibling sexual abuse and determining its scope and effects. The author distinguishes between natural curiosity and sexual abuse of siblings, discusses consent versus coercion, and emphasizes that universally accepted criteria for distinguishing sexually abusive behavior from normal behavior do not exist. She explores the scope of the sibling sexual abuse problem, noting that prevalence rates vary widely and that very few victims disclose their abuse. In addition, the author examines the effects of sibling sexual abuse in terms of methodological difficulties, sexual activity and adjustment, sexual self-esteem, the impact of sexual abuse on children, and difficulties in establishing and maintaining close relationships. 26 references and 2 tables