Sexually Abusive Behaviour by Children and Adolescents

Recently professionals have recognised that children as well as adults may act in sexually aggressive ways towards others. This is complemented by an expanding empirical evidence base. A comprehensive appraisal of the literature is beyond the scope of this review. However, the estimated size of the problem, it's aetiology ( Lee et al., 2002 ), outcomes and successful intervention programmes ( Borduin & Schaeffer, 2002 ) will be discussed. The evidence base and clinical experience with this group strongly supports the need for coherent government policies in relation to sexually abusive behaviour by children and adolescents.