Community Reactions to Young People Who Have Sexually Abused and Their Families: A Shotgun Blast,Not a Rifle Shot |
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Authors: | Simon Hackett Helen Masson Myles Balfe Josie Phillips |
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Institution: | 1. School of Applied Social Sciences, Durham University, Durham, UK;2. School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK;3. Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland |
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Abstract: | Data on 117 young sexual abusers were examined to investigate the nature of community responses to young people's abusive behaviour. A wide range of community responses were found, with stigmatisation, social isolation and collateral damage being common. A contagion effect was noted, with community responses extending over time and across contexts. Some young offenders and their families were attacked and forced out of their homes. In some cases, community responses heightened risk factors. The policy and practice implications of the findings are discussed, including the need for caution about the inclusion of children in policies on community notification of sex offenders. |
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Keywords: | adolescent sex offender community sexual abuse youth |
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