APA Resolution Opposing Child Sexual Abuse

Whereas the American Psychological Association is steadfast in its stand against the sexual abuse of children, and

Whereas the welfare, appropriate treatment and protection of children is a priority of the highest order for the American Psychological Association, and

Whereas the Committee on Children, Youth, and Families of the American Psychological Association was established in 1986 to "…contribute to the formulation and support of policies that facilitate the optimal development of children and youth within families…", and

Whereas children who have been sexually abused often experience health problems, eating disorders, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, fearfulness, social withdrawal, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts, and

Whereas psychologists as researchers, educators, service providers and policy advocates have played important roles in advancing knowledge regarding the consequences, effective treatment, and prevention of child sexual abuse, and

Whereas the vast body of research studies published by the American Psychological Association over the past 20 years has advanced the field and contributed to the development of sound public policy, and

Whereas the American Psychological Association repudiates and disassociates itself from any organization or publication that advocates sexual interaction between children and adults,

Therefore, be it resolved that the American Psychological Association reaffirms its long established position that sexual relations between children and adults, are abusive, exploitive, reprehensible and properly punishable by law.