Psychologist’s Role in the Protection of Children and Adolescents Experiencing Sexual Violence: Challenges of the Protection Network Beyond the “Orange May” Campaign

Abstract

Sexual violence against children and adolescents constitutes a serious violation of human rights and a significant public health issue, with impacts that affect the physical, emotional, social, and psychological development of victims. This study aimed to analyze the role of psychologists in the protection of children and adolescents experiencing sexual violence, discussing the challenges faced by the protection network and the need for permanent actions that extend beyond the mobilizations promoted by the Orange May campaign. This is a qualitative bibliographic study conducted through a review of scientific articles, legislation, and official documents available in the SciELO, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Google Scholar databases. The results revealed that, although Brazil has a robust legal framework, represented by the Federal Constitution, the Child and Adolescent Statute, and Law No. 13,431/2017, challenges related to service fragmentation, insufficient resources, and limited coordination among protection agencies still persist. The findings also demonstrated that psychological practice plays a fundamental role in welcoming victims, providing qualified listening, preventing revictimization, and promoting mental health. It is concluded that combating sexual violence against children and adolescents requires continuous investment in public policies, strengthening of the intersectoral protection network, and recognition of professional practice, ensuring the effective guarantee of rights and comprehensive protection throughout the year.