Balancing safety, support and recovery for all
Sibling sexual harm, and other forms of harmful sexual behaviour displayed by children and young people within families, creates unique and complex emotional and practical challenges for children, parents and carers.
Parents and carers often describe the discovery or disclosure of a child sexually harming another family member as a crisis point that brings distress, uncertainty and significant disruption to family life.
They may feel torn between supporting the child who has been harmed and the child who has displayed harmful sexual behaviour, while also trying to support other family members – especially other children – and maintain safety for all.
In the weeks, months and years that follow, families may need ongoing support to understand what has happened, strengthen safety, address underlying factors, navigate changes to routines and living arrangements, and repair sibling and family relationships.
Responses that keep the safety and wellbeing of the whole family in view are better placed to support recovery and long-term family healing.
How this collection helps
If there is no immediate safety risk, or if you would like to understand more about sibling sexual harm, these resources provide information about the specific challenges families face and the support they may need.
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Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.