Reported child sexual abuse in Canadian schools and recreational facilities: Implications for developing effective prevention strategies

Abstract Analysis of two Canadian data bases on investigations of suspected child sexual show that less than 3% of child protection investigations and less than 4% of police investigations involve allegations made against school or recreational personnel. An empirical review of the effectiveness of sexual abuse prevention strategies targeting these settings concludes that strategies such as limiting children's community activities or limiting staff student interactions are more likely to increase risk of victimization. Many screening techniques are also considered problematic because they have limited effectiveness and may create false expectations of safety. Sexual abuse prevention education programs show promise to the extent that they support child disclosures. Improving reporting and investigation procedures remains the most promising area for protecting children in the community, although staff resistance to child centered protocols may be an obstacle in some jurisdictions.