Abstract

PEREDA, N.  and  ARCH, M.. Child sexual abuse an parental alienation syndrome: Differential criteria. Cuad. med. forense [online]. 2009, n.58, pp.279-287. ISSN 1988-611X.

Child sexual abuse and those cases of parental interferences are severe situations with negative consequences for children suffering them. Moreover, these situations are not easy to tackle regarding the diagnosis and professional approach. To distinguish when the professional is in front of one of the above mentioned situations is a complex task for which are needed a strong, solid training and trustworthy criteria. The main aim of the present work is to suggest some criteria, gathered from the publications in the field, which would be able to differentiate between actual child sexual abuse and parental interference. The analysis of the child's report, as well as different clinical indicators that are present in many victims of sexual abuse can help the professional to take the right decision. The effects of a diagnostic mistake in any of these cases would imply harm for the child, his or her family and the social system. It is very important that the professional avoid taking part actively in an evaluation of this type if he or she does not have enough training and experience on this controversial field.

Keywords : parental alienation syndrome; child maltreatment; parental interferences; sexual abuse.

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