Validation of child sexual abuse: the psychologist's role

Because of the recent increase in the reporting of child sexual abuse, validation of sexual abuse allegations has become a major focus of interest. Validation investigations typically have been carried out by a number of professionals involved in social service and law enforcement agencies. Lack of coordination and collaboration among professionals has led to confusion as to the credibility of reports of child sexual abuse. This paper discusses the role of the psychologist in determining the validity of sexual abuse allegations and makes suggestions as to how existing validation procedures can be improved.