May 1, 2026
Saprea and Georgia State University Release Study Findings on Public Perceptions of Child Sexual Abuse in Georgia
ATLANTA, GA — Sparea, in partnership with Georgia State University researchers, has released preliminary findings from a statewide study of more than 3,100 Georgia residents examining public perceptions of child sexual abuse.
The research shows a strong foundation for prevention, with 86% of respondents believing child sexual abuse is preventable. However, gaps remain: only 67% recognize child sexual abuse as a problem in their own community, and nearly 25% are unsure how Georgia compares to national rates—highlighting a “not in my backyard” barrier to awareness and action.
“While it’s encouraging that most Georgians believe child sexual abuse can be prevented, there is still work to be done in helping communities recognize the issue closer to home,” said Chris Yadon, Managing Director at Saprea. “Prevention begins with awareness, and awareness must feel personal to drive meaningful change.”
“Prevention begins with awareness, and awareness must feel personal to drive meaningful change.”
—Chris Yadon, Managing Director at Saprea
The study also revealed key differences across communities. Rural areas and some suburban regions report lower confidence in available resources, while younger adults and parents are more likely to recognize child sexual abuse as a local issue. Additionally, findings point to the need for more culturally responsive outreach, as communities report lower awareness and less confidence in accessing support.
“These findings reinforce that while belief in prevention is strong, awareness, prevention education, and access to resources are not evenly distributed,” said Jennifer Jiles, Instructor of Communication at Georgia State University and primary investigator of the research. “To effectively address child sexual abuse, we must meet communities where they are with relevant, trusted, and accessible information. Many of the responses shared by participants advocated for additional school-based education and prevention programming, resources, training, and coordination between organizations and agencies that serve communities and families.”
The results highlight an important opportunity to expand education, increase visibility of resources, and engage communities in prevention efforts across Georgia.
“To effectively address child sexual abuse, we must meet communities where they are with relevant, trusted, and accessible information.”
—Jennifer Jiles, Instructor of Communication at Georgia State University
About Saprea
Saprea is a nonprofit organization dedicated to liberating individuals and society from child sexual abuse and its lasting impacts through survivor healing and prevention initiatives.
About Georgia State University
Georgia State University is a leading public research institution committed to advancing knowledge and addressing critical social challenges through impactful research and community engagement.
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