New Tool: Young People’s Sexual Behaviours – Mapping Tool (YSB-MT)
‘Harmful sexual behaviour’ is the term commonly used to refer to child-on-child sexual abuse, and is defined as behaviour which is developmentally inappropriate, may be harmful towards self or others, and/or be abusive towards another child, young person, or adult. Harmful sexual behaviour exists within a spectrum, ranging from behaviours considered inappropriate to those more violent and harmful, and it is one of the most complex and sensitive challenges in contemporary safeguarding and child-welfare practice.
Sophie King-Hill, member of Foundations’ HSB Advisory Group and Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham, has developed a new tool called the Young Person’s Sexual Behaviour Mapping Tool (YSB-MT). Designed to be used with young people aged 13–18 years and freely available to a range of professionals, the tool is rooted in a socio-ecological model which looks at a young person in a holistic way – taking into account family, school and the wider community. It takes a participatory approach, where the young person’s voice is valued and they co-create the support needed. The tool also highlights the importance of reflective practice by the professional and includes some key questions to aid reflection.
