Michael

For the past few months, 7- year-old Michael has been acting out. At home he has been verbally and physically abusive, tried to set a fire in his bedroom, and destroyed his younger sister's favorite dolls. At school, he has become increasingly aggressive towards other students. Most recently, his teacher observed him sexually acting out towards a classmate.

Michael was referred to BCAC for a forensic interview. At BCAC, Michael's mother expressed her concern and frustration regarding Michael's behavior, saying that he has been "out of control" for the past few months and that she was "at wit's end" trying to deal with his behavior.

When it was time for Michael's interview, he was reluctant to speak to the forensic interviewer. Gradually, rapport was established.  Michael explained that at school, he was "practicing being a man".  He explained that it was a game he often played with his 16-year-old cousin when he spent the night at his uncle's house.  After Michael's disclosure of abuse, two other young children in the family were interviewed and they too disclosed they had been sexually abused by the young man. Further investigation determined that the 16-year-old cousin had been similarly sexually abused as a younger child.

Michael was referred for follow up treatment. Today, BCAC's treatment team continues to work with Michael and his family.  His mother reports that his behavior has improved at home and he is doing much better in school, both behaviorally and academically.