The child and the abusive context: Preventing future human rights abuses

Empirical research on the abuse of children linked to WorSP is a burgeoning yet limited area, with few representations of survivor’s voices. Research; remains largely African centric, suggests it’s a phenomenon likely to be under reported and requires further research . Definitions over timing and the constitution of abuse are debated and practitioner confidence in recognition of CALFB is only 33%.

Using PhD research findings, this presentation seeks to discuss ways in which future human rights abuses can be prevented/combated. It posits that this can be achieved via developed understanding of the elements and actors involved in the ‘abusive context’ surrounding the child, leading to improved identification and intervention.

The research involved the voice of both survivors as well as professionals involved in cases. It includes a spectrum of cultural and religious perspectives. It adopted a novel approach to the analysis of data, by utilising Clarke’s (2005) Situational Analysis, to map the abusive context. This includes non-human elements surrounding the situation of action as it occurs in the UK context.

The presentation therefore, draws on data extracts to inform improved child protection practice via the empirically evidenced, identifiable ways in which cases could become ‘known’. Discussions will cover key findings on issues and considerations including; the importance of definitions, when a child is suspected of nothing, theories of disclosure, inhibitive professional and organisational responses, restraining frameworks, a network of abusers and the impact of globalised societies.