Individual and contextual factors associated with the sexual abuse of children under 12: a review of recent literature

As this chapter is based on a review of research literature, is it necessary to outline the methodology that was chosen for the inclusion and exclusion of material. It is essential that the definitions of abuse employed in the field are understood. It outlines the systematic model that is used to understand some of the main layers of causation. Each layer is examined. First, the socio-cultural level of explanation is considered. Then the risk factors that appear to be associated with poverty is examined. Risk factors in the child's immediate environment are considered next and the last section explores the individual characteristics of perpetrators. The chapter ends by pulling the diverse threads of evidence together.