The Assessment and Treatment of Children Who Abuse Animals

Empirical research has clearly demonstrated that animal abuse in childhood is associated with family violence and violent behavior towards humans in general. Such abuse is accordingly of increasing interest within human services and the criminal justice system.

This handbook will serve as an ideal resource for therapists in social work, psychology, psychiatry, and allied fields who work with children who have abused animals. It provides step-by-step guidance on how to assess, develop appropriate treatment plans for, and treat children who commit animal abuse, based on the AniCare model developed by the Animals and Society Institute. Exercises cover the identification and expression of feelings, the development of empathy, self-management skills, and working with parents. Careful consideration is also paid to the effects of witnessing animal abuse. The theoretical framework is eclectic, encompassing cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and attachment theories. A number of illustrative case studies are included, along with excerpts from treatment sessions. Accompanying electronic supplementary material demonstrates role-played assessment and treatment and includes workshop presentations of pedagogic material.