#WhyIDidntReport why sexual offences’ victims do not report in the Hong Kong context

Abstract

Purpose - This research seeks to examine the main barriers behind sexual offences victims of why they hesitate and choose not to report the crime to authorities. Design/ Methodology - The research data were gained from semi-structured interviews with a sample of seven respondents in Hong Kong. Findings - The main barriers behind the victims include three main categories, personal, social, and institutional. The main barriers include lack of family support, Chinese culture, education, attitudes toward police and criminal justice system, and criminal justice procedure. Sexual offences victims often suffer short to long term psychological impact, and those who do not report to authority is believed to suffer more serve impact. The findings show that there should be more sex education offered to the general public, especially to the family. More training should be given to law enforcement and related professionals so victims can be treated fairly and be better protected.