Children with Sexual Behavior Problems: Family-Based, Attachment-Focused Therapy

William N. Friedrich

Praise for Children with Sexual Behavior Problems:

“Dr. Friedrich’s new book is a culmination of his remarkable work with young children who have unusual or aggressive sexual behavior . . . For a new practitioner or an experienced therapist, the book provides insight into the child and caregivers, assists the provider in developing a systematic treatment plan, and describes evidence-based techniques to utilize with these children and their families.”
—Barbara L. Bonner, Ph.D., Professor and CMRI/Jean Gumerson Endowed Chair, Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma, and coauthor of The Physically and Sexually Abused Child

“This book should be on the shelf of every state social worker. . . . By grounding his work in attachment theory, Friedrich develops a complex, comprehensive picture of sexual behavior problems, showing children in their humanity and avoiding the common black-and-white, victim versus perpetrator thinking. Clinicians and researchers will rely on this resource for years to come.”

—Sharon Lamb, Ed.D., Professor of Psychology, Saint Michael’s College, author of Sex, Therapy, and Kids

“By creatively integrating the empirical literature and applying his common sense clinical wisdom, Bill once again helps us to understand and constructively respond to the varied forms of sexual behavior in children and adolescents.”

—David J. Kolko, Ph.D., Professor of Psychiatry, Psychology & Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Overview – Contents

Sexually inappropriate touching, language, and other actions on the part of children are difficult to diagnose and treat. Prevailing taboos about sex and the misconception that inappropriate sexual behavior is always a sign of sexual abuse
inhibits frank conversation and often leads families to hide problems.

Here William Friedrich, with more than 25 years of experience in the field, offers a research-based and clinically-proven method for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention with children and their families. This book distinguishes itself by Friedrich's emphasis on addressing sexual behavior problems from an attachment perspective.

This means that, whenever possible, inappropriate sexual behavior is considered in light of larger family dynamics, emotional security, and child development. It also implies that family therapy is the ideal treatment modality. An important part of helping a child who exhibits inappropriate behavior involves guidance and reinforcement in the home. Friedrich shows therapists how to include the whole family in the process while not endangering the child or alienating the family.

A key feature of Children with Sexual Behavior Problems is the Assessment and Treatment Manual that constitutes the second part of the book. Grounded in the research-based perspective articulated in Part 1, the Manual puts Friedrich's insights into practice. Clear guidelines for evaluation and diagnosis are offered and a wealth of forms for clinicians and clients are included in order to structure therapeutic work.

About the Author

At his death in 2005, William N. Friedrich, Ph.D. was Professor of Psychology at the Mayo Medical School and the author of numerous journal articles, chapters, and books, including Casebook of Sexual Abuse Treatment.

ISBN 10: 0-393-70498-X
ISBN 13: 978-0-393-70498-3
2007 / 321 pages / Hardcover