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Sexual Abuse Prevention: A Training Program for Developmental Disabilities Service Providers

NCJ Number
230666
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 19 Issue: 2 Dated: March-April 2010 Pages: 119-127
Author(s)
Rachel A. Bowman; Joseph R. Scotti; Tracy L. Morris
Date Published
March 2010
Length
9 pages
Annotation
A study was conducted on the effectiveness of a sexual abuse prevention training program for developmental disabilities service providers.
Abstract
Persons with developmental disabilities are at an increased risk for becoming victims of sexual abuse. Research has revealed that the largest group of identified perpetrators of sexual abuse is developmental disability service providers. The purpose of the present study was to develop, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of a sexual abuse prevention training program. Participants were administered a survey assessing knowledge and attitudes before and after the training workshop. Small improvements in knowledge and attitudes about sexual abuse and the sexuality of persons with developmental disabilities were found; however, general attitudes about individuals with developmental disabilities did not change. Suggestions for future directions in this area are provided. Tables and references (Published Abstract)