Research

The Role of Organised Male-Sport in the Sexual Abuse of Boys?

The problem of childhood sexual abuse has been described as ‘an epidemic’ in the UK. Despite long-standing legislation to protect children, adults continue to abuse children in their care. It has only recently been recognised that this is also a problem for organised sport, with a high profile case in swimming in the mid-1990s proving the catalyst for government action to address the issue. Yet, very little research has been conducted into this problem and so far studies have mostly focused on females.

However, it is recognised that this is also a significant problem for boys, and recent investigations into sexual abuse in the Catholic Church have highlighted the potential scale of the problem. In sport, the voices of males who have experienced sexual abuse have not been heard. In trying to understand this problem it is vital that research considers the testimony of those that know most about this problem – those who have been sexually abused in the context of sport.

Steve Boocock, the Director of the Child Protection in Sport Unit says:

"Listening and learning from the experiences of survivors is key to the development of safeguarding practices in sport. The willingness of the sports sector to address this issue was influenced by victims of abuse coming forward, speaking out and being listened to. Mike’s research will be another important step for sports bodies and others in developing their understanding and practice".

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Documents

• CISC Presentation
• Research Paper

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