Hidden in Plain Sight

Abstract

In Aotearoa, New Zealand (Aotearoa) there is limited awareness among social workers about Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and its impact on survivors. This research paper examines systemic barriers, including non-specific legislation, insufficient training, and gaps in multi-agency collaboration. It highlights the need for context-specific risk assessment tools and culturally responsive practice frameworks. This qualitative research aimed to explore the views and experiences of child protection workers regarding CSE in Aotearoa and identify knowledge gaps and practices related to this form of abuse. The research objectives included assessing the awareness and understanding of CSE among child protection workers, identifying barriers to effective recognition intervention, and proposing recommendations for improving responses within the child protective system. Participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. Fourteen individual interviews and one discussion with two participants were conducted, and the data was analysed thematically. Many participants highlighted a lack of awareness of CSE, barriers to effective recognition and intervention such as victim blaming and shame, the need for training/education and a more coordinated multi-agency response.