The Dynamics of Disclosure of Child Sexual Victimisation: Implications for Investigation and Prosecution

Abstract

Child sexual abuse continues to be a problem of immense proportions globally, however, understanding of some of the key underlying dimensions and dynamics of such abuse are often not sufficiently well understood and accordingly the investigation and prosecution of such cases may be hampered. The author argues that legal processes unfortunately still tend to homogenise child sexual assault offences and by doing so the needs of these victims and the broader public interest are often not adequately met.

Keywords: child sexual assault, disclosure & investigation

JEL Classification: K10, K14, K30, K42