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Analyzing Child Sexual Abuse Allegations

NCJ Number
244420
Journal
Journal of Forensic Psychology Practice Volume: 13 Issue: 4 Dated: July-September 2013 Pages: 296-314
Author(s)
William O'Donohue, Ph.D.; Lorraine T. Benuto, Ph.D.; Olga Cirlugea, B.A.
Date Published
August 2013
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This article offers a model that can be used by forensic professionals to analyze allegations of abuse.
Abstract
When children make allegations of sexual abuse, forensic professionals are often involved in attempts to develop a better understanding of these allegations. This article offers a model that can be used by forensic professionals to analyze allegations of abuse. The model seeks to either rule in or rule out plausible hypotheses that often surround abuse allegations. The 10 dimensions are: (1) outcry analysis; (2) stake analysis; (3) parent/significant other suggestion analysis; (4) forensic interview analysis; (5) memory analysis; (6) analysis of the developmental sufficiency of abuse details provided by the child; (7) inconsistencies analysis; (8) logistical detail analysis; (9) fantastical details analysis; and (10) personological analysis. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.