Pregunta

I want to discuss the broad use of the term COCSA (Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse). From what I've learned, both children are considered victims in these situations. However, I've noticed COCSA being used in cases where young people are aware of their actions, which seems confusing. Why isn't a new term created for these cases, like "Juvenile Sexual Assault" (JSA)? I'm confused about why COCSA is used when it's meant for situations with two victims of circumstance. Doesn't using COCSA for cases involving more awareness or intent blur the lines between different scenarios? How can we better differentiate between these situations in our terminology?

Respuesta

Thank you for raising this important question about COCSA (Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse) terminology. Your observation about its broad application highlights the complexity of this sensitive issue.

COCSA specifically refers to situations where a minor engages in sexually abusive behavior towards another minor, involving force, coercion, or manipulation. While it's true that in some cases, both children might be considered victims in a broader sense (e.g., if the child causing harm is replicating their own trauma), it's crucial to recognize that COCSA does distinguish between the child who perpetrated the harm and the child who was harmed.

The use of COCSA in cases where young people are more aware of their actions isn't necessarily a misuse of the term. However, you're right that it can sometimes blur important distinctions. The field is evolving, and professionals are using various terms to capture different nuances, such as "sexually harmful behavior in children" or "problematic sexual behavior in youth."

Your suggestion of "Juvenile Sexual Assault" (JSA) is thoughtful, though existing terms like "youth-perpetrated sexual harm" or "juvenile sexually abusive behavior" are already in use for similar purposes.

It's important to note that people who have experienced these types of harms often attach to labels that make the most sense for their experiences. This personal interpretation of events is valid and can be an important part of processing and healing. The terminology that resonates with an individual's experience may not always align perfectly with clinical or legal definitions, but it's crucial to respect how people choose to describe their own experiences.

The broad application of COCSA reflects the complex factors involved, including early sexualization, replication of trauma, exposure to inappropriate content, or lack of understanding about boundaries. However, it's crucial to balance understanding these factors with not minimizing the impact on victims.

Moving forward, continued refinement of terminology by professionals in the field will be important. This can help ensure that each situation is described accurately, reflecting the specific circumstances, levels of awareness, and potential for harm involved, while always prioritizing support for those who have been harmed and respecting how individuals choose to label their experiences. Thank you for asking this question. We appreciate your dedication to continued learning in this area.