Children who abuse children: a snapshot

A rare insight into what spurs children to abuse other children and what they suggest will prevent them from abusing has been revealed in a new study.

AVERAGE AGE OF ABUSER:

* 12 years old

UPBRINGING:

*Many have been abused themselves, have experienced family violence, neglect, bullying

PORNOGRAPHY HABITS:

* Viewed porn regularly, felt it was normal

* Some would act out what they saw in porn on victims

* Porn was one factor that triggered abusive behaviour

* Felt if they hadn't watched porn, their abusive behaviour would be reduced or eliminated

SEX EDUCATION:

* Was not helpful in stopping them from abusing

* Came too late (normally in late primary school or high school)

* Heavy emphasis on contraception, not on consent, age or incest

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PREVENTION AS SUGGESTED BY ABUSERS:

* Make their relationships with guardians safe (fair, non-abusive)

* Reform sex education

* Help their management of pornography

Source: Young people identify three opportunities for preventing sexually abusive behaviour, Melbourne University policy briefing paper.