Abstract
This study explores views of young child abuse survivors, whose abuse was unknown to child protection, about confidentiality. Survivors involved with charity Eighteen And Under (n = 185) were invited to participate. A total of 140 participated. Eight aged 12–20, two males and 6 females chose involvement as researchers and participants and 132 aged 11–30, 25 males, 114 females and one non-gendered chose participant involvement. Eighty-five percent (n = 117) were survivors of child sexual abuse and 15% (n = 23) were survivors of child abuse. Utilizing participatory action research, researchers designed and analyzed qualitative and quantitative data gathered through surveys, interviews, focus groups, online-chats and graffiti walls. A social construction thematic approach analyzed data. Inter-rater reliability was maximized through independent data analysis. The results showed that participants, particularly males and under 16 s, wanted greater protection of confidentiality. Males were less likely to disclose sexual abuse. Two superordinate themes were identified: (a) limited confidentiality led to fear of loss of control and trust and (b) retractions of abuse and higher levels of confidentiality led to talking openly, feeling respected and believed and a sense of control and empowerment. Two further themes were identified from young researcher reports: improved self-esteem and positive life changes. In conclusion, young people unknown to services want greater confidentiality than is currently offered. Participative research was emancipatory, and further participatory research with young CSA survivors is needed.
Highlights
This study explores views of young child abuse survivors, whose abuse was unknown to child protection, about confidentiality
Research approval was granted by the University of Dundee Research Ethics committee to explore the views of young child sexual abuse (CSA) survivors whose abuse was unknown to child protection agencies on confidentiality
All young people who took part identified as abuse survivors, with 85% (n = 117) identifying as CSA survivors; 24% (n = 33) experienced bullying; 20% (n = 27) physical abuse; 12% (n = 17) neglect; 11% (n = 16) emotional abuse and 4% (n = 6) experienced domestic abuse
Summary
This study explores views of young child abuse survivors, whose abuse was unknown to child protection, about confidentiality. Studies of teenagers found that which examined barriers to disclosure included fear, lack of confidentiality, lack of trusting relationships, negative responses, fear of authorities and shame (Ungar et al 2009). Of those who reported CSA, only 8.3% had talked to professionals (Priebe and Svedin, 2008). One potential conclusion to reach the following analysis of studies of child disclosure of CSA and agency responses is that young CSA survivors’ needs for safety and justice in the United Kingdom are insufficiently addressed by child protection services (CPS) and criminal justice systems (CJS) (Horvath et al 2014; Allnock 2015).
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