INTRAFAMILIAL SEXUAL ABUSE AND THE PROTECTION OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Violence against children and adolescents is one of the greatest social challenges, with intrafamilial sexual abuse being one of the most serious and silent forms, marked by relationships of power, trust, and omission that hinder reporting. The objective of this study was to analyze the phenomenon in the family context, identifying its particularities, warning signs, consequences, and legal and institutional protection instruments. The research adopted a qualitative and exploratory nature, with a deductive method, literature review, and documentary analysis of legislation and reports. The results indicated the prevalence of girls among the victims, the perpetuation of violence through silence, and the fragility of the support network. It is concluded that, although there is a robust legal framework, the effectiveness of protection requires intersectoral public policies, prevention, victim empowerment, and active participation of society