The scientific war on child abuse - the business of alleged child abuse danger of the plethysmograph test for alleged child molesters

National Review, Feb 15, 1993 by K.L. Billingsley

And, near the end, a light touch: "I have fantasized about killing someone during sex."

Dr. Melvin G. Goldzband, director of forensic psychiatry at UC San Diego, cautions that, by itself, the plethysmograph "cannot and must not be used diagnostically." Goldzband believes that there has been "a marked overuse" of the machine, which is sometimes accepted by courts. Psychologist John Adam argues that the plethysmograph is "bogus and unethical to use" because it can be fooled "mentally and physically." As with the corruption-filled foster-care system, part of the problem is money: Chris Friend's counselor, for example, charges $1,000 per session.

It is hard to see how the current system will improve until the financial incentives are changed, the presumption of innocence restored, and the child police held responsible for their actions. Evidence that the system is itself in denial came last April, when the California state government rejected a measure that would have lifted social workers' unqualified immunity. Until some such measure is passed, social workers will continue to seize children first and ask questions later.

Mr. Billingsley has written for many publications, including Heterodoxy and The Spectator (London).