Harmful Sexual Behaviour in Young Children and Pre-Teens

This book examines the prevalence, risks and impacts of problematic sexual behaviour on younger children and explores Australian educators' legal and professional responsibilities towards children.

Lesley-anne Ey, PhD, ECE (Hons) is Senior Lecturer in Education Futures at the University of South Australia with expertise in children's harmful sexual behaviours, the impact of media on children's socio-sexual development, bullying, and child protection issues with the aim to support teachers and inform curriculum. Elspeth McInnes, AM, BA (Hons 1), PhD is Associate Professor in Education Futures at the University of South Australia with expertise in issues of child abuse and child protection, family violence, trauma and child development, and public policy regarding family law, income support, and family services.

1. Introduction 2. Typical Sexual Development and Harmful Sexual Behaviour 3. Children's Harmful Sexual Behaviour: A Global Phenomenon? 4. Aftermath and Impacts of Harmful Sexual Behaviour 5. Influences on Harmful Sexual Behaviour: Child Characteristics, Familial, and Social Context 6. Laws and Responsibilities 7. Educator Knowledge of Harmful Sexual Behaviour and their Training Needs 8. Responding to and Supporting Children who Display Harmful Sexual Behaviour: An Educator's Approach 9. Identifying Challenges and Prevention Strategies 10. Conclusion