Family and sexual violence rates against Australian children rise sharply as researchers warn of ‘manosphere’

Researchers have found a sharp rise in child sexual assault cases in Australia since the pandemic, contrary to expectations that rates would decline. While the exact cause remains unclear, experts suggest factors like income inequality and increased public awareness may be contributing. The increase is particularly notable among boys, with attacks rising significantly more than anticipated. The findings highlight an urgent need for stronger preventive measures to address the growing crisis.

Study authors say increase cannot be attributed to any one factor and list income inequality and growing awareness as other likely reasonsGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe sexual assault of Australian children has accelerated sharply since the pandemic, surprising researchers who expected rates to have fallen but instead found attacks on boys had risen 15.7%.Researchers expected rates to have dropped in line with other countries around the world and warn the troubling findings show an urgent need to prevent the suffering of children. Continue reading...