A systematic review of the United Kingdom's contact child sexual exploitation perpetrator literature: Pointing a way forward for future research and practice

Abstract

Until recently, empirical evidence exploring Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) has been scarce, particularly in relation to contact exploitation, where the convicted perpetrator seeks direct physical (offline) contact as opposed to solely targeting the victim online. This article presents a systematic review of the UK's contact CSE perpetrator literature, searching from 2009 to the present day to ensure that studies encompass the categorisations detailed within the CSE statutory definitions. Twenty-three research articles were appraised using a Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). A narrative synthesis approach was used to synthesise the findings from qualitative and mixed methods studies identifying four significant analytical themes including (a) barriers to examining a complex phenomenon, (b) recognising the contact CSE perpetrator, (c) understanding the contact CSE perpetrator and (d) responding to the contact CSE perpetrator. This review synthesises evidence in a singular study, ideal for policy-makers and stakeholders to provide a more comprehensive safeguarding response, guide future research directions, and provide suggestions for law enforcement disruption strategies within the United Kingdom. Recommendations for policy, practice, procedure and training include improving the recording of data, re-categorising CSE as CSA, targeting harmful sexual behaviour and group offending, and designing evidenced based perpetrator treatment programmes. Future research centring on the perpetrator's adverse experiences and the strategies used to instigate sexual contact could advance understanding of how these crimes could be prevented.