Abuses of Power by Father-Daughter Incest Perpetrators in Treatment

Abstract

Father-daughter incest perpetrators abuse power and impede progress in their therapy by (1) using treatment to avoid consequences while maintaining a responsible image; (2) concealing details of their abuse of the victim; (3) minimizing the extent of their sexual deviance; and (4) continuing attempts to dominate their families. The role of a therapist-family coalition, based on the therapist's support and empowerment of the mother, in blocking these tactics is discussed.