Key protective factors for children with sexually reactive behaviours

Key protective factors for children with sexually reactive behaviours include:

• living in a safe environment where the risk they pose is managed (where possible in their current living situation)
• connection to their family and community
• receiving relevant and regular therapeutic support.

Placement decisions for a child with SRB are complex and must address the needs of the child who has been sexually abused, risk factors in the home environment and the capacity of parents and community members to supervise the child with SRB. Partner with the child, their parents and the safety and support network to develop ways these protective factors can be safely incorporated into a child’s life. Ensure they are included as actions in the child’s case plan, placement agreement and in other important documents.