An Analysis of Intra-familial and Extra-familial Child Sexual Abuse Cases at a Child Monitoring Centre: Clinical and Forensic Insights

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a serious human rights violation that affects hundreds of millions of children globally. This study aims to elucidate the fundamental dynamics in the reporting and diagnostic processes of intra-familial and extra-familial CSA cases in Turkey, as examined within the forensic medical system. The research is based on case files (n = 1421) from the Child Monitoring Centre (CMC) in Antalya, Turkey. The study identified 149 cases (10.5%) of intra-familial abuse and 1272 cases (89.5%) of extra-familial abuse. In the intra-familial group, the perpetrator was often the father, stepfather, or mother's boyfriend, whereas in the extra-familial group, the perpetrator was frequently a friend or boyfriend. Pregnancy was identified in 12.1% of intra-familial and 15.1% of extra-familial cases. Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed in 32.1% of the intra-familial group. The findings underscore the necessity for strengthened multidisciplinary centres, thorough evaluations, and follow-ups of all CSA cases, alongside mandatory psychiatric assessments to facilitate early detection and intervention.