Reactions of non-abused children aged 3-9 years to the Sexual Knowledge Picture Instrument: an interview-based study

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Child Development
• Forensic Psychology

Background:

• The Sexual Knowledge Picture Instrument (SKPI) is a validated diagnostic tool for assessing sexual abuse in young children.
• Understanding children's reactions to sexual health information is crucial for accurate assessment and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the verbal and non-verbal responses of non-abused Dutch children (ages 3-9) to the SKPI.
• To analyze differences in these reactions based on gender and age groups.

Main Methods:

• Ninety non-abused children (median age 5) participated, recruited from preschools and primary schools.
• Children underwent recorded semi-structured interviews using the SKPI.
• Interviews were scored for verbal and non-verbal reactions by an independent rater using specialized scoring lists; non-parametric tests were used for analysis.

Main Results:

• Most children correctly identified genitals and their non-sexual functions.
• Only 34% understood the depiction of adult sexuality, with one child describing a sexual function.
• Girls (median 87% correct) outperformed boys (median 78% correct; p=0.006). Giggling was the most frequent non-verbal reaction (186 instances in 54 children).

Conclusions:

• Non-abused children under 9 years old possess limited knowledge regarding the sexual functions of genitals.
• Insight into adult sexuality is minimal in this age group.
• The SKPI elicits varied responses, including giggling, suggesting a need for careful interpretation in diagnostic contexts.