Basic issues in the sexual abuse of children within the family are addressed. Cultural roots are discussed & insights of the feminist model are applied. Studies of incidence & prevalence are reviewed, as are studies linking early sexual abuse with a range of serious physical & psychosocial sequelae. The author discusses treatment models & goals of treatment, arguing for improved services to victims & for societal value change that will eliminate sexual victimization of children. 48 refs.(LH)