Journal of Child Sexual Abuse 14(3) 2005 : 107-129

This journal article reports the findings of a wider social policy doctoral research project. The author argues that the emotional bond between survivors of child sexual abuse and the people who perpetrated the abuse against them has similarities with that of the powerful bi-directional relationship central to Stockholm Syndrome. The research was based on an analysis of unstructured interviews with adult survivors and key community informants, participant observation in self-help and community groups, observation of counselling sessions between a survivor and a registered counsellor, and focus groups. The author argues aspects of Stockholm Syndrome could be identified in the responses of adult survivors of child sexual abuse, which appeared to impact on their ability to criminally report offenders. An emotional bond, which has enabled the sexual abuse of children, has served to protect the offender long after the abuse has ceased. The author further argues that implications of Stockholm Syndrome could offer valuable insights to those working in the field of child sexual abuse.