MULTI-DISCIPLINARY MULTI-AGENCY SUPPORT NETWORKS FOR THE VICTIMS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

Abstract

This paper aims to review: the definition of sexual abuse in children, multi-disciplinary team (MDT) networks responding to cases of child sexual abuse, minimum knowledge required of the professionals working with child sexual abuse, and the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) model recognized as the global standard of MDT response to child sexual abuse in the developed nations. The CAC model constructed by the National Children's Alliance featuring both intervention and treatment functions lists 10 criteria for accreditation as CACs: 1) MDTs bridging professionals in medical care, welfare, and law enforcement, 2) Cultural diversity and problem-solving competency, 3) Forensic interview, 4) Victim support and advocacy, 5) Comprehensive medical evaluation, 6) Mental health support, 7) Case review by the MDT, 8) Case tracking, 9) Organizational capabilities (including training), and 10) Child-focused orientation. The development of such networks in Japan must start with the establishment of a framework to facilitate and promote the construction of MDTs to integrate the professionals responding to child sexual abuse within the various medical, welfare, and judicial agencies.