Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse: Mixed Messages and Cultural Challenges

This chapter reviews concerns regarding the confusing messages that are offered in child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention education, as well as the cultural and structural disparities produced by racism, sexism, and poverty, independently or in conjunction, that make it difficult for some groups to protect their children from CSA. Suggestions for remedying these challenges are discussed. These issues were raised in 24 focus groups with parents and nine focus groups with educators conducted as part of evaluations on the Committee for Children’s child sexual abuse prevention programs for parents and children 2. While this chapter draws on findings from the focus groups, it also incorporates and reflects larger cultural and systemic issues surrounding CSA prevention.