The Urgent Need for Safeguarding Through Education to Prevent Intrafamilial Child Sexual Abuse

• In Event: Victimization of Underaged

Abstract

Governments, charities and international institutions have attempted to understand and quantify intrafamilial child sexual abuse (IFCSA), however the societal discomfort to recognise the issue and systemic underreporting cause statistics to remain inaccurate. Despite the increase in literature investigating proactive attempts to prevent child sexual abuse through comprehensive sexual education, there remains a notable gap in research targeting education for primary school-aged children to prevent IFCSA. This preliminary investigation highlights the urgent need for further academic contributions toward identifying prevention methods of IFCSA. A review of relevant literature was conducted to provide contextual understanding for the research necessity and examine evidence-based approaches towards progressing proactive measures for safeguarding children. A critical evaluation of government supported interventions to aid charities and educational institutions in delivering age-appropriate education and implementing awareness initiatives for young children was explored. Possible ethical controversies, implications and social reactions to corresponding research were considered and explored to prepare and respond to potential challenges in a sensitive manner. This article enhances academic literature by critically evaluating current educational interventions, assessing their efficacy and need for improvement to suit the prevention of IFCSA through appropriate educational implementation in primary school environments. This exploration attempts to progress public understanding and awareness of IFCSA and encourage social tolerance and acceptance of supporting evidence-based contributions to children’s safeguarding.

Author

• Nicole Brooks, University of Southampton