Child Sexual Abuse in India: Understanding and Impacting Individuals, Families, and Socio-Cultural Systems

Child sexual abuse is a pervasive problem that can have immediate and long-term negative effects on children and youth. Yet, research into this complex phenomenon is very recent in India, as are societal attempts at intervening into the lives of children and adolescents who have experienced sexual abuse within and beyond the family. Educating parents and caregivers about child sexual abuse and other forms of child maltreatment is critical to the prevention of sexual abuse and the provision of safer homes and healthier environments for children. The authors examine the nature and incidence of child sexual abuse in India and present an overview of key research findings to date. Factors that put children, youth, and families at risk for sexual abuse are discussed from family science and socio-cultural perspectives. Implications for counselors and social workers providing therapeutic services for children in India who have been sexually abused and their families are also highlighted. Finally, the authors discuss how child sexual abuse in India can be addressed and prevented through family life education and community capacity building efforts.