Intrafamily Sexual Abuse and Institutional Care of Children in Early Childhood: A Case Study

Abstract

Sexual abuse impacts different spheres of a child's life, generating consequences for physical, psychological, social, affective and cognitive development. This study aims to present the phenomenon of intrafamily sexual abuse and the psychological, social and legal aspects experienced by victims. For that, a case study of two brothers victims of sexual abuse was used. Observation of the children was carried out in the institutional reception environment; projective techniques with social educators, and documentary research of the legal processes of the brothers, o In 2018, the brothers were welcomed after presenting, in an emergency medical consultation, signs of sexual violence and neglect of care. The documents contained in the legal proceedings found intrafamily sexual abuse, neglect of parental care, developmental problems: speech delay and muscle tone; and difficulty in establishing affective bonds and socialization, among other health problems. The storytelling of the educators showed anguish and commitment in the care of the brothers. The observation of the children pointed to the global improvement over the months, the establishment of affective bonds and initial difficulties overcome. It is concluded that the institutional reception promoted an environment of protection and individualized and affective care, allowing the siblings to develop again and to establish an affective bond between themselves and with others. The study reiterates the seriousness of sexual abuse in early childhood, highlights the serious violation of rights, which must be addressed within the scope of public and mental health and social assistance, implementing and expanding public policies aimed at early childhood.