The Merry-Go-Round of Sexual Abuse

By William E. Prendergast.

New York: Haworth Press, 1993. 243 pp. $39.95, $27.95 (paper).

The Merry-Go-Round of Sexual Abuse: Identifying and Treating Survivors is an in-depth exploration of sexual abuse and a useful guide to identifying, treating, and breaking the cycle of such abuse. William Prendergast draws on thirty years of treating sex offenders, as well as the survivors of sexual abuse and assault, to walk readers clearly through the complex and often disturbing elements of this subject. The author illustrates the why and how of abuse, its relationship to sexuality, and the ways that abuse can be carried on in a cycle of violence where former victims become future perpetrators. Prendergast provides step-by-step guidelines and specialized treatment techniques, illustrated with pertinent case studies, making this a valuable guide for professional and parent alike.