Professional Perspectives on the Irish Response to Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation: A Qualitative Analysis

Child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSAE) poses risks to the wellbeing of survivors, families, and society. The purpose of this exploratory research was to identify challenges, gaps, and opportunities of the Irish response to CSAE based on perceptions of professionals involved. The sample (n = 10) consisted of professionals from various fields, representing legal, social work, practitioners, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) relating to CSAE prevention or intervention work. Qualitative data was collected via one-to-one structured interviews. Data was thematically analyzed. Four main themes arose: (1) ease of access; describing accessibility to problematic material, perpetrators' access to children, and access of big tech to children. (2) Awareness; detailing parental awareness of CSAE, awareness of the prevalence of children with harmful sexual behaviors (HSB), as well as education on CSAE. (3) Resources; referring to pressure on NGO's and charities to combatting CSAE, funding required, a lack of policy and regulations to protect children, and availability of accessible services to victims and families. (4) Victim-focused; acknowledged by a need for holistic prevention, a more equitable justice system, and advocacy for victims' independent needs and ongoing respectful care. The results highlight the ongoing and accelerating use of technology in CSAE perpetration, calls for greater awareness and resources by professionals combatting CSAE, and the need to consider holistic preventative strategies, as well as individualized care for survivors. These insights have implications for practitioners and policy makers concerned with strategies of CSAE prevention and intervention.