TY  - BOOK
AU  - Pasese, Pepe
TI  - Pacific Island children's and primary caregivers perceptions of the child sexual abuse investigation and litigation processes
PY  - 1999///
CY  - Auckland
PB  - University of Auckland
KW  - FVC
KW  - COURTS
KW  - CULTURAL ISSUES
KW  - PACIFIC PEOPLES
KW  - PASIFIKA
KW  - THESES
KW  - CHILD ABUSE
KW  - CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
KW  - NEW ZEALAND
N1  - Thesis submitted as fulfilment of the requirement of the degree of Master of Psychology in the University of Auckland; nz
N2  - This thesis discusses basic concepts to explain how child sexual abuse is viewed from the Pacific Island cultural perspective. It also highlights the perceptions of children and their primary caregivers' disclosure of the investigation and litigation process for sexual abuse allegations, including, for example, their relationships with social workers, video units, the Police, medical examiners, the court, and counsellors.   The methodology involved interviewing 12 children (aged 10 to 17 years old) and 15 primary caregivers regarding their experiences with the litigation process. Most children and caregivers stated that they were generally satisfied with initial interactions with professionals; however some aspects became problematic. These aspects included the need for more interagency collaboration; reduction in time delays; more information regarding the investigation process (including materials written in Pacific Island languages); more support for primary caregivers; and more access to the court preparation programmes. The interviews with the primary caregivers also note discussions regarding the lack of disclosure to family due to shame and/or keeping peace within the extended family, and caregivers also feeling wedged between supporting the child and keeping peace.   The author provides recommendations for improvements within the litigation process, such as national data collection; time delay reductions; realistic time frames; efficient change-over coordination of professionals on the case; keeping the family informed of case progression; availability of information in Pacific Island languages; support person provisions for children; cultural awareness; and information on mediation and support services.  Source: Author's absract
ER  -