Author Description

This manual was developed to assist front-line community workers (including teachers) with issues concerning the disclosure and investigation of sexual abuse allegations in Canadian aboriginal communities. Written in English and French, this document examines the needs of individuals, families, and communities dealing with sexual abuse. Part 1 discusses background issues: definitions, realities, seriousness, and special issues related to sexual abuse in aboriginal communities; problems with current approaches to handling abuse; and community-based intervention teams as an alternative approach. Part 2 addresses facilitating and investigating sexual abuse disclosure: signs of abuse; varieties of disclosure; initial intervention; the investigation process when the victim is a child and when the victim is an adult; confronting the abuser; and the importance of record keeping. Part 3 looks at issues and needs at the time of disclosure for the victim, abuser, victim's family, spouse and family of the abuser, community, child protective services, justice system, and the community worker. In part 4, guidelines are given for planning the post-disclosure process, including creating a positive community environment, prevention programs, and healing. Contains 32 references. (SAS)