Professionals’ perspectives and experiences regarding child sexual abuse prevention

Background

A significant proportion of children are exposed to sexual abuse (CSA), but only a minority of offences are detected. The number of people who have not offended but display risk factors is unknown.

It is important to understand professionals’ perspectives about CSA and people experiencing paedophilic or haebephilic desires. Findings indicated that attitudes of professionals depend on their perspectives, experiences and training. This includes knowledge about prevention and specific programs such as the Prevention Project Dunkelfeld (PPD). This research project will explore perspectives, experiences and opinions regarding PPD as a prevention tool among professionals who work with actual or potential CSA offenders.

Aim

This project aims to:
- explore the perspectives and experiences of professionals working with actual or potential CSA offenders
- explore professionals’ opinions regarding the PPD and its possible use in preventing CSA.

Methods

Purposive sampling will be used to recruit professionals from government and non-government organisations who work with actual or potential CSA offenders. Organisations will be approached with the request to explain the research project, and with approval, staff will be introduced to and invited to participate in the study. Staff members will be asked to contact the researcher if they are interested in participating. Upon contact, the researcher will establish eligibility before a mutually convenient time and date for an interview is negotiated. Data will be transcribed using NVivo transcription software and analysed according to principles of interpretive phenomenological analysis.

Significance

More knowledge and understanding are needed about the psychological, behavioural and situational contexts of CSA offenders to prevent recidivism and further victimisation of children. This research will offer insight into professionals’ experiences and attitudes working with a difficult clientele and will introduce participants to the PPD as a means to prevent CSA offenders from acting on their attraction to minors. This study will provide support for a prevention approach not previously utilised in Australia. It will offer participants the opportunity to be part of this unique study which will likely inform policy and practice.

Project start date

July 2021

Expected completion date

January 2025