A Non-Clinical Referral Tool to Help Identify Problematic Child Sexual Behavior: Development, Training, and Initial...

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Early identification of problematic sexual behavior in children and youth (PSB-CY) is crucial for affected individuals.
• Clinical settings have valid tools for PSB-CY identification, but non-clinical professionals lack resources.
• Professionals in schools and youth programs need accessible methods to address PSB-CY.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and content of a novel referral tool (RT) for identifying PSB-CY in non-clinical settings.
• To evaluate user feedback on the RT's usability and effectiveness.
• To support military agencies and schools in managing PSB-CY concerns.

Main Methods:

• Development of a referral tool (RT) based on evidence-based information on PSB-CY.
• Content design to help users organize observations and document behaviors.
• Collection and analysis of user feedback from early adopters.

Main Results:

• The RT was designed to help professionals differentiate normative, cautionary, and problematic sexual behaviors.
• User feedback indicated the RT is user-friendly, understandable, and aids objective decision-making.
• The tool facilitates informed referrals for further clinical review and support.

Conclusions:

• The developed referral tool effectively assists non-clinical professionals in identifying and managing PSB-CY.
• The RT promotes consistent documentation and objective decision-making for referrals.
• This resource enhances support for children, youth, and families impacted by PSB-CY.