Child sexual abuse in the general community and clergy-perpetrated child sexual abuse: Review paper

This 2013 paper provides an overview of the research literature in relation to child sexual abuse, in the context of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

Part 1 examines the prevalence and impact of child sexual abuse on adult mental health. Part 2 examines various aspects of child sexual abuse perpetrated by priests, other clergy and pastoral employees of churches. The paper concludes with recommendations in relation to strategies for preventing child sexual abuse, promotion of safe and confidential pathways for disclosure, meaningful assistance and psychosocial support for victims, and community education.

View paper