The emotional impact of treating child abuse

The author agrees with the need for pastoral intervention in child abuse and neglect, but warns that pastors need to be prepared to handle the intense emotional effects that result. The emotional impact of treating child abuse and neglect is examined under the rubric "countertransference." Three sources of countertransference are outlined: identification with the child, identification with the parent, and encountering resistance. Finally, ways to cope with countertransference engendered by treating child abuse and neglect are explored. The need for quality supervision is especially stressed.