Reclaiming Safe Spaces for CSA Survivors with Disabilities

I recently had the privilege of presenting at the International Safeguarding Conference, an annual event dedicated to fostering collaboration in protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse. My speech, titled “Exploring the Multifaceted Impact on Survivors’ Spatiality in the Intersection of Disability: a Mixed-Methods Ethnographic Approach,” delved into how survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) with disabilities reclaim their spaces amidst the intersection of trauma and impairment.

A Mixed-Methods Ethnographic Approach

Using in-depth qualitative interviews and visual ethnography, my research also aims to capture the nuanced experiences of CSA survivors with disabilities. This mixed-methods approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of how disabilities shape these survivors’ perceptions and interactions with their homes. Through survivor-led video tours, photos, and spatial mapping, we gain insights into how survivors navigate their physical and digital domestic spaces.

The Role of Space in Trauma and Healing

The ongoing fieldwork highlights the dual impact of CSA and disability on survivors’ sense of safeness, belonging, and identity within their living spaces. Certain spatial arrangements, sensory elements, and privacy aspects can trigger traumatic memories, while others foster a sense of security and healing. For instance, a rearranged bedroom or a modified bathroom can either evoke past traumas or provide a comforting, controlled environment that aids in the healing process.

Visual Ethnography: A Tangible Lens

Visual ethnography plays a crucial role in this research by offering a tangible lens to understand altered perceptions and interactions with space. The visual narratives created through photos and video tours not only enrich our understanding of survivors’ experiences but also challenge us to engage empathetically with their realities. This method provides a vibrant dimension to the data, making the experiences of living with both CSA trauma and disabilities more accessible and comprehensible to the audience.

The Role of External Support Systems

My research also critically examines the role of external support systems, including family, caregivers, and safeguarding agencies, in shaping the spatial experiences of CSA survivors with disabilities. There is a delicate balance between the need for assistance and the desire for autonomy. Understanding this tension is key to creating safe and empowering home environments that respect the survivors’ need for independence while providing necessary support.

Towards Trauma-Informed Educational Practices

Ultimately, this holistic approach offers a culturally sensitive understanding of safeguarding and aims to foster trauma-informed educational practices. By recognizing the intricate ways in which CSA survivors with disabilities experience and reclaim their spaces, educators and policymakers can develop more effective strategies to support these individuals. This research underscores the importance of creating environments that are not only physically accessible but also emotionally supportive and empowering.