Children With Problematic Sexual Behavior Theory, Research, and Evidence-Based Practice

by Allen, Brian

• ISBN13: 9781433847387
• ISBN10: 1433847388
• eBook ISBN(s): 9781433847394
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2026-11-03
• Publisher: American Psychological Association
• More Book Details

Summary

Clear, practical guidance for clinicians facing the challenges of assessing and treating children with problematic sexual behaviors. 

Problematic sexual behavior (PSB) among children is rarely addressed in mental health training or in continuing education programs. Although research on PSB and effective interventions has advanced significantly over the past two decades, much of this knowledge remains buried in academic journals without practical demonstrations for real-world clinical work.  

This book provides a clear introduction to the topic of PSB, discusses how this research-based understanding can translate into effective clinical assessment, and provides a treatment protocol that can be used by any mental health provider. Rich case examples illustrate how providers can handle difficult interactions with children and caregivers with both compassion and scientific rigor.

 

Author Biography

Brian Allen, PsyD, is professor of pediatrics and psychiatry in the Penn State College of Medicine and core faculty in the Penn State Child Maltreatment Solutions Network. He is the founder of Transforming the Lives of Children (TLC) Research and Treatment Center at Penn State Children’s Hospital. Dr. Allen is one of the foremost authorities on preteen problematic sexual behavior (PSB). He is currently leading a multi‐site team developing an updated measure to assess PSB. His research has been funded continuously over the past eight years by NIH. He has published numerous journal articles and two clinically focused books: Treating Traumatized Children (Guilford, 2014) and The Science and Clinical Practice of Attachment Theory (APA, 2023).

Table of Contents

Dedication

Acknowledgements

Preface

Introduction

Part I: Understanding Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior

1. Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior: A Practical Introduction

2. Assessment of Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior

Part II: Phase-Based Treatment for Problematic Sexual Behavior

3. Phase-based Treatment for Problematic Sexual Behavior: An Overview

4. Phase 1: Family Sexuality and Response

5. Phase 2: Healthy Sexuality

6. Phase 3: Skill Development

7. Alyssa P.: A Preschool-Aged Child with Self-Focused PSB

8. Alvi L.: A School-Aged Child Watching Internet Pornography

9. Jamar W.: A Pre-teen Child Interested in Sexual Relationships

10. Special Applications of PBT Phases

11. PBT Pitfalls and Frequently Asked Questions

Appendices

References

About the Author