Investigation of child sexual abuse within the Maltese context : a professional perspective

Abstract

In many cultures, Paedophilia remains one of the least discussed topics from a perpetrator’s point of view. General knowledge on the subject remains scant as sexual abuse of children remains media material, with minimal interest in uncovering the underlying issues which motivate abusers (Casey, 2015). Obscurity and fear, shun progress that could be made in helping prevent abuse, leaving governments to depend on prison punishments as the only prevalent option. While the acts are grievous and leave indelible marks on victims, understanding risks, motivations and developing a proactive strategy to prevent abuse will undoubtedly benefit society and people at risk of becoming victims (Jahnke, 2015). Locally, NGOs strive to offer support groups to addicts, encouraging self-reporting and self-submission. The approach brought noticeable progress, as noted in Caritas annual reports. (Caritas, 2023). Perhaps it is time to address Paedophilia as an addiction. Rather than stigmatising paedophiles, our society could explore reaching out to these individuals to provide them with a safe environment to discuss and address their innermost secrets and issues (Ranch Creek Recovery, 2017). 1.1 Overview: This dissertation aims to investigate definitions, understand risk factors and explore remedial action as laid out in reputable literature with the scope to examine if paedophilia can be predicted at the onset of mental and physical development and help identify features in individuals that may trigger future engagement in sexual activity with minors. The framework of this investigation is covered by three main objectives ; 1. Investigate risk factors that can lead to sexual abuse of minors. 2. Explore the motivations and triggers that can lead to child sexual abuse through interviewing Professionals. 3. Explore possible interventions on how to prevent child sexual abuse within the local context. 1.2 Layout: The Project extensively references influential authors. It compares the literature with local experts' knowledge, explores the distinction between paedophilia as a disorder and child sex abuse as a crime, where they merge and deviate. The structure of the project is laid out as follows ; Chapter 2 – Literature Review Chapter 3 – Methodology Chapter 4 – Findings Chapter 5 – Recommendations 6 Undoubtedly, more research is needed, and the scope of this dissertation is to provide an opportunity for other researchers to pursue investigating child sexual abuse and underlying motivations driven by biological anomalies and childhood trauma.