How Do Siblings of Child Sexual Abuse Victims Respond to Disclosure? "Impact of Child Sexual Abuse on Non-Abused Siblings: A Review With Implications for Research and Practice"

31 October 2017 3 mins read Research In Practice Safeguarding and child protection Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation

This review explores the evidence on the experiences on non-abused, non-offending siblings following the disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA) from their sibling.

The review discusses siblings' emotional and behavioural responses to the victim's disclosure, as well as changes in the dynamics of the family system. The paper highlights the importance of support services including the whole family to reduce the negative impact of CSA.

Siblings' emotional and behavioural responses

Although sibling relationships are generally characterised by positive interactions and warmth, there can also be negative or conflictual sibling relationships.

Following the disclosure of CSA, siblings can experience a variety of internalising (anxiety, sadness) and externalising (defiance, anger) symptoms. They may also engage in negative behaviours towards the victim and non-offending caregiver. These behaviours are potentially influenced by:

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