Abstract:
Cases of children ages 12 and younger with problematic sexual behavior (PSB) can present a myriad of
challenges for multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs). After all, MDTs
and CACs were historically designed to address maltreatment of children committed by adults, not by other
children. When presented with child-initiated harm cases, child-serving agencies are often inadequately
equipped to provide the integrated and comprehensive response that is required in these situations.
Significant disparities exist across many communities regarding resources specifically geared toward the
initial response and assessment of cases of children with reported PSB; development and implementation of
MDT and CAC protocols specific to these cases; and treatment options for the children involved and their
caregivers. Further, many professionals do not have foundational or current knowledge of the research and
best practices related to children with PSB, hindering quality decision-making. Child-serving professionals,
however, can become more effective in responding to and managing cases of children with PSB. This can be
accomplished through training on the nature of normative and problematic sexual behaviors in children;
employing engagement strategies for children and families; focusing on long-term outcomes for children
with PSB, in an effort to reduce the risk of PSB from reoccurring; and revising policies and procedures to
reflect best practices to meet the needs of all children served. Together, the MDT approach and the CAC
model are ideal vehicles for the provision of the resources needed for the development and implementation
of an integrated and comprehensive systems approach to cases of children with PSB and their families. This
white paper will focus on how cases of children ages 12 and younger who initiate PSB, the child victim(s),
and their families could be successfully served by CACs and MDTs.