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Children's Perceptions of Personal Safety Issues and their Vulnerability to Molestation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 February 2016

Freda Briggs  and
Russell M.F. Hawkins
Freda Briggs*
Affiliation:
De Lissa Institute of Early Childhood and Family Studies at the University of South Australia
Russell M.F. Hawkins
Affiliation:
Psychology at the University of South Australia, and a Clinical Psychologist in part time private practice
*
Prof. F. Briggs, De Lissa Institute of Early Childhood & Family Studies, Lorne Avenue, Magill, SA 5072. Tel: 08 3024583 Fax: 08 302 4723
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Abstract

Interviews with children aged from 5 to 8 highlighted their vulnerability to molestation. This vulnerability is based in part on children's developmental levels. These include a limited capacity for abstract thought which renders some well intentioned attempts at child protection ineffective. Designers need to consider these developmental limitations when they develop child protection programs. Common parenting practices are also implicated in the perpetuation of children's vulnerability. These practices make it unlikely that a child would have the confidence to report adult-initiated sexual misbehaviour to a parent. Education is necessary to inform parents about ways in which they can reduce children's vulnerability by changing their own practices.

Type
Research Article
Information
Children Australia , Volume 18 , Issue 3 , 1993 , pp. 4 - 9
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1993

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