Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention

This workshop presents findings from a 2025 mixed-methods study conducted by Georgia State University and Saprea measuring public perceptions of child sexual abuse (CSA) among Georgia residents. The study worked to establish baseline perception data using both a representative panel sample (n=2,819) and a convenience sample (n=338), with responses analyzed across demographic and geographic dimensions.

Attendees will explore what Georgians believe about the prevalence, preventability, and community impact of CSA, and how those beliefs vary by demographic indicators like familial status, rural/metro areas, and ethnicity. The workshop also presents qualitative findings drawn from over 1,500 open-ended responses,  that reflect the public's own language and priorities for prevention.

Designed for practitioners, policymakers, educators, and community leaders, this session will help participants translate perception data into more targeted, community-responsive prevention strategies. Led by Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, the second half of the workshop will conclude with a comprehensive overview of child sexual abuse prevention programs, resources, and evidence-informed strategies currently available across Georgia, highlighting practical ways individuals and organizations can turn these findings into action. Participants will leave with a better understanding of how to leverage public perceptions to strengthen prevention efforts, engage communities, and work collaboratively toward protecting children.