[Sexual abuse by staff of inpatient facilities for children and adolescents].

Examples of sexual abuse by professionals in residential agencies for children are presented as well as aspects of sexual attraction between staff members and children which is put under taboo among professionals. The author focuses on incestuous and sexual abuse supporting institutional structures: a) rigid and authoritarian structures, which contribute to the emotional isolation of staff members and b) unstructured and diffuse leadership. Indications are given for staff members who suspect colleagues of sexual abuse of children.