Up to now, there have been few, if any, tests for concealed child abuse in
families. One main reason is that the child is often fiercely intimidated
beforehand never to tell the truth about what happened. I have developed an
experimental test, and I would like the group to have a review copy without
charge. This structured questionnaire overcomes fear of retaliation by basing
the first half of the test on symptoms of emotional trauma. The premise is
that children who are abused will often exhibit such symptoms. Because the
child is unaware of the implications of his answers, he is able to respond
freely and honestly. For some reason, not yet known, children tend to "open
up" and TALK FREELY about factual matters toward the second half and end of
the test. This instrument needs reliability and validity studies, and for
that reason, would be an excellent project for a graduate dissertation. When
the test is validated, it will hold up in court because it is objective, and
does not call for an interpretation by the examiner. Such an instrument is
very critically needed. For several years, I have been using it in my private
practice and recording the responses for possible use in court or for
presentation to child protective services. The test can be given by a parent
or by anyone. No special training is needed. Again, this test is available
without charge upon email request.

Secondly, we have a free review copy of a DOMESTIC VIOLENCE test for
unrecognized abuse. Most women who take this self-administered test remark
that they did not realize they were being abused until they took the test.
Thus, this inventory breaks the denial in a compassionate way. Again, free by
email request.

Heyward Bruce Ewart, Ph.D.
Diplomate, American College of Forensic Examiners
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www.webjax.com/hrac


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