Shattered Innocence

Using a holistic approach, this new guidebook is geared toward mental health professionals working with women who have been victims of sexual abuse, and the survivors themselves. It provides background necessary for understanding child abuse, and presents a four-stage theoretical model for therapeutic intervention. Information is given that will enable the therapist to accurately diagnose the occurrence of childhood sexual abuse and conceptualize the effects of family, stage of development, and spirituality on the victim. Ego splitting is examined in detail. Also included are comprehensive case studies on the topic.

In addition, this book serves as a bridge between the popular and professional literature on treatment of sexual abuse survivors. By using fairy tales and mainstream literature - including Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Alice in Wonderland, The Velveteen Rabbit, and current pop works such as Stephen King's It - the authors show how numerous metaphors for abuse are presented in our everyday life.

Woven throughout the volume is a historical and sociocultural perspective of the treatment of women and children - and how society has ignored such abuse. Coupled with the four-step process, this supplies the practitioner with a comprehensive overview, numerous invaluable treatment techniques, and an opportunity to gain an empathic understanding of the victim's life and experiences. Essential reading for professionals and students of counseling, psychology, social work, and other helping professions, the format also makes it highly accessible to lay-persons - both clients and other concerned individuals.