Persistence of Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Children

Date

2012

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify personal and family predictors and correlates of persistence of problematic sexual behaviors (PSB) in children. Participants were the families of 49 children (ages 4–11 years) referred by Child Protective Services in 4 administrative districts of Quebec. Caregivers completed interviews and questionnaires twice at a 1-year interval. Results showed that 43% of children persisted with PSB. When age was controlled, greater exposure to sexualized behaviors in the family proved both a correlate and a predictor of PSB persistence in children 12 months later. Externalizing problems and somatic complaints emerged as correlates of PSB as well. Maltreatment subtypes did not predict PSB persistence. (Author Abstract)

Description

Keywords

child abuse, child sexual behavior, sexualized behavior, parenting, research

Citation

Lévesque, M., Bigras, M., & Pauzé, R. (2012). Persistence of problematic sexual behaviors in children. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 41(2), 239-245.

DOI