With checklists and a central case study, master social worker Fowler gives practitioners significant tools they can use to interpret and apply information they collect in the investigation and remedy processes. Fowler describes the impact of sexual abuse on children and the means by which abusers are identified, then describes the abusing adult in terms of initial assessment, family structure, chronology, experience in childhood and adult life, the perception of self, adult relationships, perceptions about children, criminal offenses beside sexual offenses, self-esteem, dominant and submissive behaviors, anger and aggression, violent behavior, and the adult's perception of child sexual abuse. He also describes the typical behavior of the non-abusing adults involved, including assessment of their ability to protect the child from future abuse. He includes information on terms and tools used in assessing adults who sexually abuse children and lists of future reading as well as references.

A practical tool for the assessment of children and their families, this guide enables professionals to make informed decisions about child protection issues. Firmly rooted in current practice, it draws on the expertise of a practising consultant and experienced qualified social worker Jeff Fowler, whose work has already formed the basis of guidance reports for child protection agencies and court proceedings. Providing detailed checklists for collecting and interpreting information vital to a best practice assessment, it also includes practical sections that focus on assessing attachment issues, childhood experiences, alcohol and drug abuse, and parenting skills and abilities. It presents a central case study leading to an assessment report which can be used for case conferences, as a core assessment in care proceedings, or for statements in public and private law matters. This is a helpful tool for anyone undertaking assessments but also for others who may be involved in aspects of child protection work such as social workers, health professionals, teachers, and legal and criminal justice professionals.