Impact of Early Intervention for Youth With Problematic Sexual Behaviors and Their Caregivers.

• NCJ Number: 254433
• Journal: Journal of Sexual Aggression Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Dated: 2019 Pages: 4-15
• Author(s): Jane F. Silovsky; Michael D. Hunter; Erin K. Taylor
• Date Published: 2019
• Length: 12 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2010-WP-BX-K062, 2013-MU-MU-K102
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored); Program/Project Evaluation; Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This multisite quasi-experimental study examined the outcomes for 320 youth ages 10-14 years and their caregivers, who participated in community-based problematic sexual behavior - cognitive behavior therapy (PSB-CBT).

Abstract

Targeting broad implementation of early intervention services has a high potential for impact, given the prevalence of child sexual abuse committed by youth and the low recidivism rate following effective interventions. The current program evaluation found significant reductions in PSB with a large effect size (e.g. t(126)=11.69, p<.001, d=2.08) due to program participation. No site differences were found, despite racial and regional diversity. Non-sexual behavior problems, emotional problems, and trauma symptoms also significantly improved. Positive outcomes extended to caregivers. Recommended next steps include rigorous strategies for examining the impact of widespread implementation of evidence-based early intervention programs on the prevention of sexual abuse, complemented with thoughtful efforts to develop and implement policies and procedures that improve the safety and well-being of all children in the community. (publisher abstract modified)