Media Coverage of Child Sexual Abuse: An Opportunity for Family Therapists to Help Families and Communities

The recent media coverage of child sexual abuse charges involving priests is likely to trigger various needs among the public for professional services. Family therapists should prepare to respond effectively to the high anxiety that these media stories trigger. Family therapists with expertise in human sexuality should use such reports to promote a fuller understanding of all aspects of sexuality for individuals and families. Professionals can integrate much needed aspects of sexuality education in dealing with the mass media, in crisis intervention for persons at risk, and in therapy that centers on child or adult experiences of sexual abuse.