Published online by Cambridge University Press: 22 February 2012
In this brief commentary, issues associated with the definition, assessment, treatment and prevention of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) are highlighted. It is concluded that much has been learned regarding CSA in recent years and there is reason to hope that we will do better in the future. Studies presented in this special issue document some of these advances. Still, CSA continues to occur with alarming frequency and our treatment programs are only beginning to address the many issues associated with such traumatic experiences. Furthermore, developmental issues have been largely ignored and prevention of CSA remains an illusory goal. We can, and must, do better.