CSAReps Research
The project consists of two different strands. The first analyses fictional representations of CSA in books, films, and television series through case studies, with the aim of creating a thematic map. The second strand explores how CSA fiction affects different audiences, including adults and young people who have experienced CSA , support professionals (such as psychologists and social workers), creative professionals (like writers and directors of CSA fiction works), and the general public. Two completed studies that the team undertook are associated with the second strand.
Completed Studies
Georgia Rule Study
This study analysed 147 online reviews of the comedy drama film Georgia Rule, which presents a relatively accurate depiction of CSA, though framed through marketing that emphasises its comedic elements. One key finding is that the use of comedy can facilitate engagement with CSA narratives by encouraging openness and reducing the initial discomfort (“the flinch”) often associated with engaging with the issue. This suggests that new ways to talk about CSA are needed to counteract avoidance and reach new audiences; enjoyable, engaging narratives, and even comedy, might play a role.
Remembering Literature in Everyday Life (RELEL) Study
The RELEL dataset consists of interviews with non-professional Croatian readers conducted in public spaces. Within this dataset, 89 participants referred to child sexual abuse fiction and identified 27 fictional works, which were then analysed qualitatively by the team. A key finding is that readers are more likely to explicitly acknowledge and discuss child sexual abuse, and its traumatic impact on survivors, when it is a central and clearly articulated theme within the story. Readers formed stronger connections with victim/survivor characters who were portrayed as complex and experienced more emotions in response to complex victim/survivor characters. Reading child sexual abuse fiction also prompted some readers to reflect on real-world child sexual abuse.
Storyworld Possible Self (SPS) Study
This study was led by Maria Martinez with the support of CSAReps team and funded by Gobierno de España Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (Government of Spain: Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Universities). In this study, 18 participants read an excerpt from 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World containing representations of child sexual abuse and completed a survey examining their engagement with the text through the lens of SPS. This included measures such as perceived closeness to, pity for, and admiration towards characters. One key finding is that participants who stated disliking the text also tended to report self-schemas and undesirable SPS, and in turn reported higher levels of empathy for characters experiencing child sexual abuse. In contrast, participants who reported liking the text more often expressed sympathy rather than empathy.
To find out more and the CSEReps project and to stay up-to-date with their research, click here.
Affected by sexual violence or sexual abuse?
If you have been affected by issues relating to sexual violence, we can recommend some support services.
