Protecting the potential victim of sexual violence: An ethical issue in residential care

The prevalence of sexual victimization has been detailed in both non‐clinical and clinical settings. It is a sad phenomenon known to administrators and counselors of residential homes. Because of social and familial backgrounds, many of those females in our care are at high risk of victimization. Two goals must be kept in proper balance in dealing with the victims or potential victims of sexual violence. First, we should take the necessary steps to prevent a possible pregnancy which may result from sexual violence. Using the principle of totality, this may mean the prescription of anovulant pills for those believed to be at risk. Secondly, we should aim at developing a program of prevention by providing the necessary counseling and education to lessen the adolescent's vulnerability to sexual victimization.