CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE - THE ISSUE OF GROOMING

CPD-points:

Social Workers and SAW - 3,5 points

It is crucial to equip professionals in the social work and related fields with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, prevent, and respond to sexual grooming behaviors associated with child sexual abuse. This webinar aims to empower professionals on the intricacies of sexual grooming, through the enhancement of their capabilities in protecting children and effectively responding to cases of sexual abuse.

The webinar will focus on:

·       An understanding of Sexual Grooming: Sexual grooming will be defined and its role as a precursor to child sexual abuse explained. We will look at the psychological tactics used by perpetrators to manipulate children and gain the trust of caregivers.

·       Information related to online grooming.

·       The ability to recognize warning signs: to Identify common behaviors and indicators of grooming, including changes in a child's behavior, maintaining secrecy, and developing inappropriate relationships. These will be highlighted as cues that may suggest a child is being groomed.

·       An understanding of the legal framework when dealing with allegations or concerns of grooming. Relevant laws will be discussed.

·       An understanding of the ethical considerations surrounding reporting suspected grooming and abuse. Emphasize the reporting duties and responsibilities of social workers.

·       A reference in relating to effective Intervention Strategies: Intervention techniques, including how to engage with children and families, establish trust, and conduct sensitive conversations about grooming and abuse will be provided.

·       Guidelines on preventative Measures.

·       Guidelines on collaborating with SAPS and other welfare organisations, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to child protection.

The participants will be provided with a theoretical overview as well as study materials in the form of presentation slides, additional relevant literature and articles. Furthermore, the participants will be provided with the opportunity to practice practical skills through case study discussions.

Presenter: Dr Lizette Labuschagne, Social Worker in Forensic Practice

Academic qualifications:

• BA Psychology (UJ) - 2005

• HONS Social Work (UJ) - 2005

• MASTERS Clinical Social Work (UJ) - 2009

• MASTERS in Social Work Forensic Practice (Cum laude) (NWU) – 2013

• PhD Social work (NWU) - 2023

Previous work experience:

• Medical social work internship at Flora Clinic (2005)

• Junior social worker at Park Care Centre (July 2005 – November 2008)

• Part time trauma counsellor at Flora Clinic (2005 – 2010)

• School social worker at Lantern Remedial school (2010 - 2013)

• Social worker/counsellor at Rustenburg oncology (July 2009 – September 2014)

Current practice:

• 14 years in private practice, experience in and services include:

o Forensic evaluations & investigations Re: Child physical / sexual abuse

o Forensic evaluations & investigations Re: Primary residency & Divorce Matters

o Forensic report writing

o Expert testimony

o External expert reviews

o Socio-emotional evaluations of children

o Supervision of visitations

o Individual, family and marital counselling

o Therapeutic reunification

o Training and consultation.