Several themes have characterized research on sexually abused children. For example, research has indicated the extent of child sexual abuse is significant, child sexual abuse clearly has adverse consequences for children, and certain aspects of the abuse experience are linked to specific outcomes. Developmental psychopathology provides a conceptual framework that enables researchers to examine mechanisms underlying the association between maltreatment and behavioral consequences. An advantage of developmental psychopathology is that it focuses on the trajectory of development. Following a review of studies that reflect the importance of the context in which child sexual abuse occurs and that focus on developmental psychopathology concerns, future research on behavioral manifestations of sexually abused children is proposed that emphasizes placing behavioral problems of these children into an already existing framework. Criteria for future research are identified that concern developmental sensitivity, the simultaneous examination of context, the use of multiple informants, the use of abuse-specific measures, appropriate comparison groups, and diversity in outcome. It is suggested future research should look at developmental progression, family factors, protective factors, and biological correlates of functioning. 41 references