PI.17.07
Good practice in delivering and evaluating interventions for young people with harmful sexual behaviours
2 years
Young people account for a significant proportion of individuals engaging in unwanted or harmful sexual behaviours against children. Many young people who engage in harmful sexual behaviours have their own history of childhood trauma, including exposure to domestic and family violence. This research shows that these young people require holistic interventions that involve specialist services and multiple partner agencies.
This mixed-methods study mapped national service responses to young people with harmful sexual behaviours, and compared the therapeutic responses of three services.
The study found that there are variations and gaps in services for young people with harmful sexual behaviours, and information about service availability is not readily accessible. Specialist services operate in a complex environment that may make service provision challenging.
The report recommends the establishment of a public repository of information about services for young people with harmful sexual behaviours. Funding bodies should dedicate resources to collaborative research into tailoring therapeutic work to vulnerable young people.
The researchers have also proposed principles of good practice, which should be used to guide practitioners in their therapeutic work with young people. It will also support practice designers and funders in ensuring appropriate resourcing is made available.
Researchers
Project Lead
Dr Antonia Quadara, Australian Institute of Family Studies
Research expertise
Dr Wendy O'Brien, Deakin University
Dr Olivia Ball, Deakin University
Will Douglas, Australian Institute of Family Studies
Linna Vu, Australian Institute of Family Studies
Practice expertise
Mr Dale Tolliday, New Street Services
Mr Howard Bath, Alambi Care
Ms Carolyn Worth, South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault and Family Violence
Research Partners
New Zealand Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abuse (ANZATSA)
Mr Russell Pratt, Statewide Principal Practitioner in the Office of Professional Practice DHHS (who delivers SABTS programs in Victoria)
Advisory Group with representatives from diverse sectors such as police, child and family welfare agencies, family support services, family violence services, child protection and education.
Additional information
Additional project information is available at https://aifs.gov.au/projects/good-practice-delivering-and-evaluating-interventions-young-people-sexually-abusive-behaviours
Downloads
Budget
$196,055
Funded by Australian Government Department of Social Services.