Child sexual abuse research presents practical, methodological and
statistical challenges. This paper examines some recent literature
about the incidence and effects of child sexual abuse. Researchers who
use epidemiological studies to attempt to ascertain the prevalence of
different forms of abuse should be aware of the different populations
studied, different methodologies used, diverse definitions of sexual
abuse and practical limitations on participants' memories. Common
problems in retrospective and prospective studies into the effects of
child sexual abuse include the use of atypical populations,
inappropriate statistical analyses, the use of unvalidated
psychometric instruments and limited sources of information on child
functioning. Attention must also be paid to potentially confounding
demographic and family variables. A thorough understanding of, and
attention to, these problem areas in child sexual abuse research will
give a clearer picture of the prevalence and effects of abuse, thus
indicating the most appropriate forms of prevention and treatment.