What is it. This panel topic was child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). This is a growing global concern. The panel reviews some relevant research on the topic of CSAM. Panelists discussed working with victims and families throughout the process, with specific discussions about forensic interviewing in CSAM cases. The panel explored practical concerns and strategies…
What is it. While existing research has identified numerous risk factors associated with child sexual exploitation, less attention has been given to the cognitive and interpersonal processes that shape how youth understand and navigate their experiences. This study explores how female youth perceive and make sense of their experiences of sexual exploitation. Reports from children’s services workers in Quebec were examined to identify and describe the…
What is it. Problematic sexual behaviour occurs when children aged 12 and younger engage in sexual actions that are not typical for their age and are developmentally inappropriate. These actions can potentially harm themselves or others. This practice brief provided an overview of problematic sexual behaviour and offered considerations for a multidisciplinary response within the…
What is it. This panel focused on problematic sexual behaviour in children. Problematic sexual behaviour occurs when children aged 12 and younger engage in sexual actions that are not typical for their age and are developmentally inappropriate. These actions can potentially harm themselves or others. This panel looked at when sexual behaviour between children becomes…
What is it. Child sexual abuse material (CSAM) refers to visual depictions, including photographs, films, videos, or other visual representations, of sexually explicit conduct involving children under the age of 18 (Canadian Centre for Child Protection, 2018). This practice brief identified the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to addressing CSAM and outlined practical strategies for…
What is it. This article examined the experiences of young people disclosing sexual abuse to law enforcement and the impact of the justice system. Youth were recruited from Canada and Ireland through community-based sexual abuse/assault agencies, specialized clinics, and CYACs to discuss their disclosure experiences. The authors relied on the voices of young people to…
What is it. Testifying can be extremely stressful for young victims, especially during cross-examination, potentially causing emotional and psychological harm. This journal article explores the effectiveness of Québec’s Child Witness Program (Programme Témoin Enfant—PTE), which supports children and youth who must testify in court following confirmed cases of violence. The PTE aims to reduce this…
What is it. Professionals recognize that the criminal legal process can be harmful for child and youth victims. However, it is important to know how children and youth experience the legal process to develop responsive supports and processes to reduce harm. This literature review summarizes what is known about children and youth’s experiences with the legal process for child sexual abuse cases. The authors identified four themes on what children and youth need to safely participate in the legal process: to be protected, to be…