Social markers in the care of intrafamilial child sexual abuse: A socio‐representational approach and its theoretical and methodological implications

Abstract

Professionals responding to intrafamilial child sexual abuse (CSA) must assess ambiguous situations shaped by emotional tension and social knowledge. This research investigates the socio‐cognitive logic guiding their judgements and intended practices in the French context, where legal and institutional reforms have strengthened expectations for identification and protection of CSA. It draws on social representations theory to shed light on how responses are shaped by socio‐symbolic meanings. A two‐step methodology was implemented. Study 1 developed a contextualised vignette reflecting the ambiguity in intrafamilial CSA disclosures. Thirty interviews with the general population were analysed to identify interpretative frameworks activated in evaluation, informing vignette operationalisation and assessment measures. Study 2 used this material to examine the influence of victims' social markers (age: 8 vs. 14 years; socioeconomic background: advantaged vs. disadvantaged) on judgements among 380 professionals‐in‐training in healthcare and social work. Results showed that these social markers affected severity assessments, responsibility attribution to the minor and alleged perpetrator and decisions regarding protective interventions. Findings highlight socio‐representational logic related to age and social class that orient interpretation and decision‐making. This work underscores the need for reflexive training to reduce influences in CSA responses and demonstrates the value of contextualised methodological approaches for advancing research and practice.