Background: Child abuse is underreported globally, with many victims unable to report it due to fear, stigma, and lack of supportive services. Research focuses predominantly on male perpetrators, yet a growing understanding that females commit these offences too. Women are defined as the traditional caregivers, prompting further social taboos and the difficulty of recognising women committing sex offences against a child (Hayes & Baker, 2014; Dreßing et al., 2018). The portrayal of female perpetrators of child abuse in the media is relatively unexplored. Ministry of Justice (2019) reported that in 2016, 142 women and girls were found guilty of sexual abuse, including sexual assault and rape against a minor, which tripled within a decade. Aim: To review the way female perpetrators of sexual abuse against children are portrayed in the media and society. Methodology: A qualitative study, analysing newspapers published in the UK between 2014 and 2024, reviewing the language used to describe female sexual offenders. By examining the language, it showcased the misrepresentation of using phrases such as “relationships” even when there was a power dynamic or abuse against a child. Both national and regional newspapers were reviewed. Findings: Reported that stereotyping, societal gender norms and lack of understanding of the severity of the abuse by women influence the portrayal of female child sex offenders. Results noted that the media can influence society's understanding and legal responses when addressing cases. This review contributes to a deeper understanding of media portrayals of female perpetrators.

Authors:
Natalie Quinn Walker, Birmingham City University, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Natalie Quinn - Walker
Deputy Course Lead Masters of Public Health and Senior Public Health Lecturer
PhD in Social Science
Researching public health, social policy, domestic abuse, and inclusive higher education.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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