Situational Prevention of Child Molestation: From the Molester's Mouth

• In Event: Child Sexual Abuse: Preventing Harm and Helping Survivors

Abstract

This study adopts an interpretive phenomenological approach examining the subjective experience of 16 incarcerated child molesters. We asked about the how, where, with whom and why they molested. Content analysis stressed going back and forth between data inductively deriving themes.
Routine Activity Theory is our framework. Findings: Motivated offenders took advantage of opportunities when weak supervision allowed. They enjoyed the crimes, and blamed the victims for being caught. They viewed past rehabilitation experiences with contempt.

Core Conclusions:
1 Children aren't always safe during daily interactions with adults they know
2. It is a Red Light when interaction lasts too long, and involves touching.
3. Guardians’ presence is not enough to stop or prevent the spin from escalating.
Sometimes Saying: ”stop!” Or “What are you doing!” in the context of routine family activities
draws awareness to the tutor, coach, religious figure, or uncle and stops the process from spinning into molestation. Sometimes more forceful approaches are required.

4 Two-way communication between minor and their parents is essential.

5 Just as parents childproof their homes they, teachers, and others must effectively monitor and supervise their children in the context of familial, sports, and educational routine activities and take charge to prevent sexual abuse.

Authors

• Michael L. Fischer, Norfolk State University

• Brenda Geiger, Western Galilee College

• Avital Sabrina Fischer, Stanford University Psychiatry