This paper presents results from a rapid evidence review of 23 empirical studies to examine pathways to the onset of contact child sexual abuse (CSA) offending.
Fifteen developmental, individual and situational or facilitating factors were identified as contributing to the onset of contact CSA offending. These factors ranged from adverse childhood experiences and early exposure to pornography and violent media, to problems in adult relationships and atypical or abusive fantasies. Studies varied in quality and methodology, and few focused on the interactions between factors in the pathways to offending.
Primary and secondary prevention approaches should educate young people, parents and carers, mandatory reporters and other adults, and target high-risk individuals through early intervention to disrupt pathways to contact CSA offending.
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