Cultural Barriers to the Disclosure of Child Sexual Abuse in Asian Communities: Listening to What Women Say

Abstract

There is an apparent under-reporting of child sexual abuse in Britain's Asian communities and a very varied capacity amongst professionals and agencies to respond with cultural competence. Professional approaches to child protection originate in cultural contexts, which are different to those of most British Asians. A qualitative study in Bradford used discussion of a locally produced multi-lingual booklet as a catalyst for discussion of responses within Asian communities to child sexual abuse. Analysis of notes and transcripts of discussions with groups of Asian women identified common and contrasting themes. Prominent amongst these were a general acknowledgement that child sexual abuse occurs within Asian communities; that it is a problem which needs to be addressed by all communities and that those affected may find it difficult to access services even where they are available. In particular, there was recognition that difficulties which arise, in part, from fears about how relevant agencies and professionals will respond, are frequently compounded by the impact of cultural imperatives arising from 'Izzat' (Honour / Respect), 'Haya' (Modesty) and 'Sharam' (Shame / Embarrassment). These appear to determine how women in particular will behave. A review of similar studies, in the fields of 'domestic violence' and mental health, reinforced the conclusion that, if practitioners and policy makers are to succeed in increasing the proportion of children and nonabusing carers from Asian communities who access relevant services, they need to develop much better understandings of the cultural imperatives which determine behaviour in those communities. Culturally competent practice and respectful dialogue with Asian communities is essential to the effective protection of children.