Evaluation of a sexual abuse prevention program for female Chinese adolescents with mild mental retardation

Abstract

The effectiveness of the Behavioral Skills Training program in the primary prevention of sexual abuse for 72 female Chinese adolescents with mild mental retardation was evaluated. Subjects were assigned to either the Behavior Skills Training program or an attention control program. The Behavioral Skills Training group demonstrated greater knowledge regarding sexual abuse and self-protection skills at posttest, which was maintained at 2-month follow-up, though the scores on the recognition of appropriate-touch requests showed a decreasing trend. They also exhibited less fear of objects, people, and situations after the prevention program. Booster sessions and a longer program duration should result in better retention. Results suggest that a modified Behavior Skill Training program can be effective with Chinese adolescents with mental retardation.