The wider spectrum of child abuse

Child abuse encompasses many facets aside from the acts of physical violence which have generally attracted attention. Sexual misuse of children often goes unrecognized, yet its effect on the mental health of the victim may be considerable; it may or may not be accompanied by violence, and it generally occurs within a setting of serious disturbance in the family. Clinical details of nine sexually abused children are described, and they serve to illustrate how this form of abuse may prevent. The management of these cases is discussed. Sexual abuse of children is a family problem and therefore must be the concern of the family doctor.