Child Sexual Abuse in Children With Developmental Disabilities

Children with developmental disabilities are vulnerable to abuse. However, their trauma symptoms are often misdiagnosed or overlooked as they are often misattributed to the developmental disorder. This program assists psychologists on how to identify symptoms, advocate, and provide consultation to child forensic interviewers, lawyers, and the court system regarding effective interviewing techniques and modifications for children with developmental disabilities. Lastly, useful tools, resources, recommendations for treatment and support are provided.

• Determine and identify indicators of child abuse in typically developing children and children with developmental disabilities.
• Clearly distinguish their role in the prevention, detection, disclosure, and intervention of child sexual abuse and learn advocacy strategies as it relates to the court system.
• Identify effective assessment and treatment strategies and modifications to use with children who have experienced abuse and are diagnosed with developmental disabilities.

Susan George, PsyD, MSW