Care of victims of sexual violence against minors by social and health professionals: A scoping review

Sexual violence affects 12.5% of minors and has numerous health consequences, making it a major public health issue. Health and social care professionals play a crucial role in the detection and care of such violence. However, despite their central role, many professionals exhibit tensions, resistance, and a lack of knowledge, which hampers their effectiveness. This research aims to analyze the socio-cognitive determinants underlying the tensions experienced by professionals in the care of child victims of sexual violence, as well as the professional practices that result. A systematic computer-based search was conducted in March 2023 using the PsycInfo and PubMed databases, following the PRISMA protocol. Of the 688 references initially identified, 96 articles were selected for in-depth analysis. Two main trends emerged in the results. The first identified socio-cognitive determinants such as beliefs, representations, actors’ characteristics, professionals' experiences, and lack of knowledge that influence care practices. These factors can lead professionals to minimize the severity of the violence and the perpetrator’s responsibility, and to question victims’ credibility. The second trend concerned professional practices through social and cultural factors, particularly considering socio-demographic and cultural variables, and differences between countries, highlighting tensions between social norms and professional responsibilities. The psychosocial approach makes it possible to conceptualize the care of victims as social practices embedded in norms, values, and ideologies. To improve recognition and response to child victims, professionals must take socio-cognitive and socio-cultural determinants into account in their practices. • Scoping review of determinants shaping responses in child sexual abuse care • Socio-cognitive and cultural factors influence professional responses and practices • Beliefs, norms and lack of knowledge create tensions in care • Determinants shape severity assessment, responsibility, credibility and reporting • Psychosocial approach frames care as socially embedded, improving training