Citation

Berry LJ, Tully RJ, Egan V. J. Child Sex. Abus. 2017; 26(7): 769-784.

Affiliation

Centre for Forensic and Family Psychology, Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine , University of Nottingham , Nottingham , UK.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/10538712.2017.1360428

PMID

28857724

Abstract

The risk of child sexual exploitation is a growing concern, both within community and child care settings. Within community services working with vulnerable young people, the risks of exploitation are pervasive and present a constant management problem for professionals. This makes the need for focused educational interventions within such settings all the more vital. This case study aims to describe the assessment, formulation, intervention, and outcomes of a young female considered to be at risk of sexual exploitation. It was hypothesised that, after completion of a psychoeducational group designed to enhance knowledge and skills around child sexual exploitation, positive outcomes would be seen in psychometric assessment, risk-taking behavior, and risk awareness.

RESULTS demonstrated no clinically significant change for measures of impulsivity, resourcefulness, or self-reported difficulties. A significant increase was seen for self-reported self-esteem, and all outcomes revealed a positive direction of change. Observational accounts of behavioral and attitudinal change produced more positive results, revealing an increase in prosocial behaviors and a reduction in risk-taking behaviors. Outcomes are discussed in relation to the individual's history and the residential care environment. Implications for future research and practice are outlined, and the study limitations are considered.

Language: en

Keywords

abuse; case study; child sexual exploitation; psychoeducation; treatment