The Assessment of Children with Disabilities Who Report Sexual Abuse: A Special Look at Those Most Vulnerable

This chapter examines a number of pervasive myths that interfere with identifying, reporting, and planning interventions in cases of sexual abuse of special-needs children such as those with developmental disabilities. Since children with disabilities are at high risk for sexual abuse, they are entitled to the same sensitivities that are granted other alleged victims. Specific suggestions for accurate, sensitive investigations with this population are discussed.