Re: Programs for 'acting out' young children in care

[Adam Tomison <adamt@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

John,

I would basically support what Jim Hord wrote.  Like you, I have seen
and used the term to describe a child or young person demonstrating
inappropriate sexual behaviour. However, the term is also used more
broadly to describe the variety of behavioural responses a
maltreate/traumatised child or young person may make. I was using the
term to describe the latter.

Thanks to all those who have responded to my query - I'll follow up on
your pointers.

Cheers

Adam Tomison



JWRIGHTTTT@aol.com wrote:
> 
> I have a brief question about the term "acting out."  Some would use
> this in
> the sense of a child demonstrating age inapropriate sexual behavior as
> a
> initial clue to the consideration that this child may have been
> sexually
> abused.  I have also seen the term used to describe violent or
> unmanagable
> behavior by children or young people in response to stress or
> maltreatment.
> Could you define the term as used in this context?  Or could you refer
> me to
> an accepted definition of the term "acting out."  Thank you.
> 
> John Wright, MD FAAP