The lived experience of professionals working with sexually abused children in a residential care setting

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore in depth the experience of professionals, such as social workers and psychology graduates, working with sexually abused children residing in residential care. The study focused on their day to day work, difficulties as well as rewards of the job. Received training and its perceived relevance ere also explored. A qualitative approach was used, namely Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), to achieve a comprehensive understanding of their experience and the meanings attributed to it by participants. Four participants participated in a semi-structured interview. Data elicited was analyzed through the use of IPA, for an in-depth understanding of the participants’ experience. Findings illustrate the various aspects of the complex experience. Difficulties encountered on the job; both professional and personal; form a substantial part of the findings. Despite this, the rewards of the job are also discussed. The resulting challenging behaviours, emotions and attitudes in the children were explored, as well as several interventions used, with the aim of guiding them through the healing process. Received training and perceived relevance of such training in preparedness to work in this sector are also delved into.