Are Irish state services failing to protect children from sexual abuse?
Authors
McKeon, Lynne
Issue Date
2013
Degree
BA (Hons) in Social Science
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This project sought to collate an understanding of professional attitudes, beliefs and experiences working with victims of child sexual abuse in Irish society at this present time. Data was gathered using ten semi-structured in-depth interviews. Thematic qualitative analysis was implemented to analyse participant perspectives on the adequacy of current Irish state services regarding child sexual abuse. Generated data from ten participants comprised of both genders with an estimated mean age of thirty-eight and from diverse socio-economic backgrounds in Ireland. This report found strong prevailing themes emerging from the gathered literature and analysis. Participants provided additional information to the analysis when reflecting on past and present experiences working with victims of child sexual abuse in Ireland. While it is perceived that Ireland is failing to protect children from abuse in the current society, it is in truth the inadequacy and lack of funding by the state that further inhibits inadequately trained personnel in the area of child protection. This furthermore reflects on the inefficient services available for child victims of sexual abuse.