Understanding sexual behaviours in children and young people is a complex and evolving field, especially when these behaviours may indicate harmful sexual behaviour (HSB). To address this, the Australian Centre for Child Protection has developed the Layered Continuum for Understanding Harmful Sexual Behaviours, a contemporary framework designed to guide practitioners in assessing and responding to sexual behaviours displayed by children. This framework provides a structured, step-by-step process that helps practitioners determine whether a child’s sexual behaviour is harmful and the appropriate level of concern. 

This project emerged from the recognition that existing models, while valuable, are not fully fit for purpose in the contemporary Australian context. Key limitations of these models include outdated language and terminology, challenges with implementation by non-specialist practitioners, a lack of focus on key concepts such as consent and reciprocity, and insufficient consideration of children’s emotional responses to sexual behaviour.

The Layered Continuum addresses these gaps by offering a more nuanced, developmentally informed approach. It acknowledges that sexual behaviours in children exist on a continuum of severity, intensity, and impact, recognising that not all sexualised behaviours are harmful or concerning. The continuum is designed to help practitioners deepen their understanding of the behaviours by guiding them through a series of layered steps, considering factors such as consent, mutuality, emotional responses, and overall pattern of the behaviour.

This presentation will explore the development of the Layered Continuum, including its theoretical foundation, evidence informed improvements from exploration of expert discussion and a validation study.  Using case examples, attendees will be walked through how to use the continuum in practice, helping to equip them with the tools to more effectively assess and respond to sexual behaviours displayed by children and young people.