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Abstract: 

Researchers have suggested that sibling incest is one of the most predominant forms of childhood sexual abuse. Practitioners have few if any sources of guidance about reports of sibling incest. This article comprehensively examines the process of reuniting a family broken by the separations that often take place after the discovery of sibling sexual abuse. In addition, it proposes an assessment methodology in line with the best practices applied to the assessment of risk of re-offense. The authors examine the characteristics and demographics of sibling incest, assessment of readiness using structured instruments such as the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL); Personality Assessment Inventory-Adolescent (PAI-A); and Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II); treatment and progress, relapse prevention planning, and monitoring following reunification, with a focus on the critical importance of parental support and victim safety planning.

Keywords: Sibling Incest; Forensic Evaluation; RNR Framework; Structured Risk Assessment Instruments

Affiliations:  1: Alan J. Lee & Associates; 2: Somerset Psychological Group; 3: Somerset Psychological Group.