SaferKidsPH Action Research on Changing Social Norms for Online Sexual Abuse & Exploitation (OSAEC)

The study was conducted to identify the prevailing norms in the community that contribute to OSAEC. The research utilized a mixed methods approach, including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions and literature review. Research participants included 253 individuals, comprising parents/guardians, children and key informants from Barangay 702 of Manila City, the target area of the action research.

The action research results show that internet use, poverty and its attendant problems, intersectionality of violence against women and violence against children, and the role of parents and guardians are some of the factors that contribute to the vulnerability to OSAEC. More importantly, the research found that the social norms that exacerbate OSAEC in the community are: (1) OSAEC as taboo; (2) non-interference in private, family matters; (3) victim-blaming and stigma; and (4) gender roles and expectations. These norms affect monitoring, reporting and timely response to online and offline sexual abuse and exploitation of children because of non-cooperation and non-mindfulness of the individuals or families concerned. A social behavior change strategy and toolkit was developed utilizing the results of the study. The strategy and toolkit will be tested in select communities to understand its effectivity and refine based on the results of the field testing.