ABSTRACT:
Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a pervasive violation of children’s rights with profound and enduring physical, psychological, and social consequences. Recognized globally as a pressing public health and social issue, CSA demands continual attention from researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. This article explores the evolving perspectives on CSA over a 46-year period, from 1978 to 2024, highlighting how definitions, societal attitudes, research priorities, and intervention strategies have developed over time. The review synthesizes peer-reviewed academic literature, government and NGO reports, and foundational theoretical contributions across disciplines including psychology, sociology, law, and public health. The rationale for selecting this timeframe stems from its significance in the history of CSA awareness and response. The late 1970s marked the beginning of broader public and academic recognition of CSA, while subsequent decades witnessed critical shifts in policy, legal frameworks, and multidisciplinary approaches to prevention and care. Through a thematic and chronological analysis, the review traces key developments such as the emergence of trauma-focused psychological models, the rise of survivor advocacy movements, increasing global research collaboration, and the growing role of digital technology in both perpetration and prevention. This paper aims to map the trajectory of CSA-related research and policy responses, offering insights into changing societal attitudes and the growing sophistication of intervention strategies. It also identifies persistent challenges, such as underreporting, cultural taboos, and disparities in access to resources and support services. By capturing both historical shifts and emerging trends, the paper provides a comprehensive understanding of how knowledge and responses to CSA have evolved globally.