Senator Blasts APA For Study Saying Adult/Child Sex Can be Positive

Senator Jerry Smith has joined other State and Federal Lawmakers in condemning the American Psychological Association for publishing a study which claimed that sexual relations between an adult and child might not be as harmful as traditionally believed, and could produce positive benefits for "willing" children.

"Given everything we know about the long term emotional devastation that these children suffer, I am shocked that the APA would publish such a study," said Senator Smith, R-Tulsa.

The study was called "A Meta-Analytic Examination of Assumed Properties of Child Sexual Abuse Using College Samples" by Temple University Psychology professor Bruce Rind, University of Michigan psychology professor Robert Bauserman, and University of Pennsylvania education professor Philip Tromovitch.

"From what I understand, the APA claims it isn't endorsing the study, but the mere fact that it published this report is beyond irresponsible. Organizations such as the North American Man-Boy Love Association have been citing this study as proof that it's okay for adults to have sex with children. Nothing could be further from the truth," said Senator Smith.

During the final days of the Oklahoma State Legislative Session, Senator Smith authored and passed a resolution condemning the study, and calling on the U.S. congress and the President to also reject and condemn any suggestion that sexual relationships between children and adults are anything but abusive and destructive.

"Child molestation is a felony. It is illegal and immoral, and adults who prey on children are criminals. That's the only message we need to be sending," commented Senator Smith.

Similar resolutions condemning the report authored by legislators in Alaska and California. The report has also drawn the criticism of U.S. House Majority Whip Tom Delay.

"It is our responsibility to protect children from sexual predators who seek to exploit them. I am sickened that the APA would publish a study that would give any credence to those who try to rationalize this perversion," said Smith.