A new report from the Youth Justice Board (YJB) warns that harmful sexual behaviour, misogyny and violence among children are becoming an increasingly serious

concern, highlighting the need for early prevention and education.

The board’s latest Evidence and Insights Pack brings together research, national data and practical examples from across England and Wales to better understand the factors driving harmful behaviour among young people and how institutions can respond.

Sharp increase in sexual offences by children

According to the report, proven sexual offences committed by children rose sharply by 47% in 2023–2024, followed by a further 6% increase in the most recent year. However, researchers caution that the rise does not necessarily mean children are committing more crimes. Improved reporting systems, better detection and changes in how cases move through the justice system may also explain the increase.

At the same time, evidence shows that sexual harassment and image-based abuse are widespread experiences for girls, particularly within schools and peer groups. These incidents reveal the scale of harm experienced by young victims, many of whom are also children.

Online misogyny and social influences

The report identifies several complex factors linked to harmful sexual behaviour among children. These include childhood trauma, exposure to misogynistic content online, peer pressure and broader social influences.

Digital platforms play a growing role. Algorithm-driven content can amplify extreme attitudes and normalise harmful behaviour among young audiences.

Research cited in the report shows:

- 27% of children say they have seen threats or images of sexual assault online.

- 33% report encountering content that encourages violence against women and girls.

 The average age of first exposure to pornography is around 13, although some children report seeing it as early as primary school.

Experts warn that early exposure to such material can distort young people’s understanding of consent and relationships, potentially increasing behaviours such as harassment, coercion and abuse.

Prevention must start early

Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, Chief Executive of the YJB, said: 

“Violence against women and girls is a serious and growing concern across society and preventing it must start early. Understanding the role harmful sexual behaviour and misogynistic attitudes play in childhood is essential if we are to prevent harm, reduce the number of victims and make our communities safer. 

Children who display harmful sexual behaviour are still children. Many have experienced abuse, trauma or exploitation themselves, and effective responses must both address the harm caused and support the child to move away from offending. 

The impact on victims, who are often children themselves, can be profound and long-lasting. Preventing harm and supporting victims must remain central to the youth justice system’s response.

Most children who display harmful sexual behaviour do not go on to commit sexual offences as adults, particularly when they receive an appropriate response. This is why early intervention, education and strong safeguarding responses are critical”.

Education and positive role models key

The report highlights the importance of school-based programmes that teach consent, respect and healthy relationships. Initiatives that engage boys in challenging harmful gender stereotypes and encourage bystander intervention can significantly improve attitudes and behaviour.

Trusted adults — including teachers, youth workers, parents and safeguarding professionals — also play a critical role in identifying concerning behaviour early and guiding children toward healthier relationship norms.

More research needed

Despite growing awareness of harmful sexual behaviour among children, the YJB says significant evidence gaps remain, particularly around which prevention programmes are most effective.

The organisation is calling for more research and evaluation across the UK to strengthen support systems and ensure interventions truly reduce harm.

The evidence pack has been shared across government departments as part of a wider effort to coordinate responses across youth justice, education, safeguarding, health and media sectors.

Ultimately, the YJB stresses that early intervention, education and strong safeguarding measures are essential to reduce violence, challenge misogynistic attitudes and help young people build respectful, healthy relationships.