Understanding child criminal exploitation: risk factors and professional perspectives

Marcarian, Rachel (2024). Understanding child criminal exploitation: risk factors and professional perspectives. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

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Abstract

This thesis aims to expand the understanding of Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE), which, as a relatively new phenomenon, has limited existing literature. In the UK, many children are subjected to CCE; they are harmed both physically and emotionally, and are often placed on a path of criminality, which has long-term impacts for them and their victims. The lack of research in this area means there is a need to improve the evidence base by exploring the relevant literature on risk and protective factors and the experiences of practitioners, to inform policy and practice. The findings presented in this thesis provide recommendations for interventions that will strengthen the support offered to young people at risk of or harmed by criminal exploitation.
The first chapter introduces the key concepts explored within the thesis, including the background context and history of CCE to date. Relevant definitions and laws pertaining to CCE are discussed and the aims of the thesis are outlined. The second chapter explores the existing UK literature base, on risk factors and protective factors for CCE and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE). The research included articles published since 2016 and employed a systematic process. The review found that risk factors were more commonly investigated and described than protective factors. The review also highlights the need for consistent definitions, clear guidelines, and reliable resources for identifying and responding to victims.
An empirical research project is presented in chapter three, which explored the views of practitioners in the Youth Justice Service (formerly Youth Offending Teams) who predominantly work with the criminal form of child exploitation, as well as CSE. Interviews were conducted with nine practitioners, and were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Seven themes and five subthemes are discussed in this chapter, with reference to practice, limitations, and recommendations for further research. Chapter four presents a critique of the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children (Briere, 1996). This is a psychometric tool used to assess self-reported symptoms of trauma in children and adolescents. The TSCC was largely found to be reliable and valid, and its possible applications to the field of CCE are discussed.
The conclusion of the thesis is presented in chapter five, where main findings are discussed. Limitations and implications of the thesis are explored, as are recommendations for additional research to further strengthen the knowledge base.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):