Sexual Health | Sexual assault/abuse and medicolegal issues | Child Sexual Abuse (CSA)

Child Sexual Abuse
Session Overview
Description
This session introduces child sexual abuse (CSA), providing information on the background, features of CSA and the law. It also covers the roles of child protection professionals and the legislative framework in which they work.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Define child sexual abuse
• Recognise issues associated with child sexual abuse
• State the principles of medical assessment
• Describe the roles and responsibilities of professionals working in the field of child sexual abuse
• State how to respond when there are safeguarding concerns about a child or young person and how to refer to child protection services

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is common and studies of adult survivors suggest that it is often not identified or reported. There are many forms of sexual abuse, including some where there is little or no physical contact. Children of all ages, boys and girls, and all sections of society are affected. Most abuse occurs within a family setting and the perpetrator is known to the victim. Some children may be particularly vulnerable, e.g. young people living away from home and those with a disability.

It is known that other forms of abuse may coexist with sexual abuse. Many families affected have other difficulties compromising care, including substance misuse, mental health problems and domestic abuse.

It is important that all professionals, including those who work primarily with adults, are able to recognise indicators of sexual abuse, understand their role in multi-agency working and respond appropriately, in order to safeguard children effectively.