Medical fears following alleged child abuse.

PROBLEM: This study profiled children's and adult guardians' pediatric anogenital exam worries.

METHODS

Forty-seven girls (mean = 11.57, SD = 2.14) and their guardians rated their anticipatory exam worries in a pediatric clinic setting.

RESULTS

A substantial minority of children reported elevated concern about their lack of exam knowledge, the staff's unfamiliarity, someone inspecting their private parts, and their health. Most adults reported elevated concern about their lack of exam knowledge and their children's health. A substantial minority of adults also reported elevated concern about their children's distress and the exam's potential painfulness. Child's age but not prior exam experience was correlated with some of these concerns.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants approached the exam with specific concerns. These data may inform interventions aimed at minimizing distress and facilitating adjustment.