Sibling incest: treatment of the family and the offender

Abstract

Sibling incest takes place in the context of a family system that does not provide a safe environment for its members. Treatment should encompass all pertinent aspects of the family system and the roles of all the family members within it, and intact boundaries must be created. Hierarchical realignment diminishes enmeshed subsystems and produces more open, honest communication in the family. The offender must take responsibility for his or her behavior. This stance should be supported by the parents. All family members should adhere to a safety plan throughout the treatment process.