Intrafamilial Sexual Abuse: Conceptions of Professional who Treat Children who have been Abused

The intrafamilial sexual abuse is a complex phenomenon that causes serious consequences for child development. This work aimed to investigate the views of professionals that work directly with child victims of sexual abuse about this reality. A qualitative study was conducted. The exploratory study included five professionals that work in two state shelters in the city of Porto Alegre. They answer a semi-structured interview, which was identified as they assess the family dynamics of children sexually abused by their(s) family member(s). Interview data were processed through content analysis. The results revealed that professionals have misconceptions regarding the dynamics of intrafamilial sexual abuse, especially with regard to the characteristics of both victim and abuser. Furthermore, they show feelings which may complicate the management of situations they faced. The results show the need for interventions in the direction of care for the caregiver, so that professionals can be accommodated in their distress and strengthened in their professional activities