Abstract
A qualitative analysis investigated child sexual abuse (CSA) and contrasting findings of Irish and International child advocacy approaches. It attempted to identify some diverse complexities that accompany CSA, such as trauma, secondary victims, attitudes and more. Semi-structured one to one interviews were conducted with 6 child care professionals, who specialise in working in diverse child care agencies of CSA, ranging from forensic doctors to detectives to therapists. Two participants worked internationally. Interviews were transcribed verbatim; thematic analysis with an inductive approach was conducted. Results generated 6 main themes within CSA: Child Advocacy Approaches, Psychological Trauma, Developing Existing Child Care Practices, Attitudes and Lack of Funding. These themes were found to be contributing constructs in contributing to a positive or negative experience for a child victim of sexual abuse and their family. This current study captured contrasting approaches between Irish and International agencies, yet more similarities were reported than differences.
