Families’ Perspectives on Services’ Responses to Australian Children’s Harmful Sexual Behaviours

This research examines the effectiveness of services’ responses to children's harmful sexual behaviours from families’ perspectives. Eighty-one Australian parents/carers of children and young people impacted by HSB were anonymously surveyed about their interactions with services and agencies responding to HSB. Fifteen further volunteered for single interviews to expand on their experiences. Participants’ children displayed and/or were affected by sexual behaviours not consistent with expected sexual development. Education and health services were the main agencies responding to HSB, followed by psychologists, sexual assault support services and police. Parents rated child mental health services as most helpful and police as least helpful in their responses to HSB. Parents wanted more information and resources. Cost, distance and availability were common barriers to accessing therapeutic services. Findings are discussed in relation to supporting families accessing services, and professional development directions.