Working with Children with Sexual Behavior Problems

by Eliana Gil, Jennifer A. Shaw

Based on extensive clinical experience, this book provides authoritative guidance and practical tools in a challenging area for child mental health professionals. The authors explain the many possible causes of problem sexual behaviors and demonstrate assessment and treatment procedures that have been shown to work with 4- to 11-year-olds and their families. Four chapter-length case examples illustrate how to integrate elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, play and expressive therapies, and family-based approaches. Helpful reproducible worksheets and forms can be downloaded and printed in a convenient 8 1/2" x 11" size.

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Andrew Benesh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book presents a useful introduction to the challenging topic of working with children with sexual behavior problems. By the very nature of the topic - one which requires clinicians to be adept at working with children across a wide array of developmental stages, navigate complex family dynamics and intergenerational patterns, manage social and cultural stigmas, and work collaboratively with family services and juvenile justice systems - no single book is going to be able to cover everything. However, this book makes a good effort of it.

The book is generally well organized, with early sections focused on normative sexual behaviors in children and issues of child sexualization, and is followed by chapters on assessment of sexual behavior problems and developing collaborative relationships with caregivers. A model for providing treatment (the Boundary Project) is offered, and then there are several detailed case examples. The material is well sourced and easy to follow overall. Overall this provides a useful lens for conceptualizing and organizing clinical work.

My main critique is that the treatment section feels thin. This is somewhat inevitable, as much of the author's approach involves using methodologies (sand tray, nondirective play, etc.) described in great depth in other books. Still, having additional detailed descriptions of treatment approaches and ways to connect assessment to treatment would be helpful. One element I greatly appreciated was the recognition of the importance of caregivers in the therapeutic process - something which is often neglected or downplayed when working with children.

Overall, I found this book helpful as a clinician. It provides a useful framework for understanding and approaching families with children with sexual behavior problems that clinicians will likely be able to adapt to fit into their own practices.