Year: 2013 Source: Trends & Issues in Crime & Criminal Justice.(2011).429:1-7. SIEC No: 20130256

The article focuses on the topic of child sexual abuse, which refers to both contact and non-contact exploitation of a child under the age of 15 years, by an adult. It is stated that the sexual abuse of children may lead to several consequences including depression, antisocial behaviors, and suicidality. It discusses various misperceptions about child sex offenders, which include all child sex offenders are paedophiles, they target strangers, and they were victims of sexual abuse themselves. The article also suggests that understanding the evidence provided in regards to child sex offenders is necessary to enhance public safety and to prevent the sexual abuse of children.