Researching Sensitive Topics Involving Children

High quality reliable evidence is essential if society is to effectively address many of the critical challenges facing children (including both children and adolescents for the purposes of this paper). Without such evidence, we are less able to understand their concerns and lived experiences, know what interventions work, or influence policy and investments to improve their lives. However, the process of conducting research with children can itself pose risks to children’s rights and well-being – especially when investigating sensitive topics such as violence and abuse. While there is a growing body of resources to support researchers in identifying and implementing good practices, an ongoing commitment to reflection and continuous improvement is needed to define ethical practice and confidently address the question of whether we can in fact conduct such research safely.

This document captures the key themes and reflections from a webinar hosted by UNICEF Innocenti – Global Office of Research and Foresight in June 2024 that was designed to bring together key international experts with UNICEF staff and practitioners and to provide links to additional relevant resources. Panelists Professor Lorraine Sherr, Professor Shanaaz Mathews and Marium Hussein each presented on specific aspects of the topic, drawing on their own experience, before engaging in a broad-ranging panel discussion that unpacked some of the issues presented in more detail.