The case involving a Grade R teacher at Harvester Primary, accused of sending explicit videos to a Grade 7 learner, has brought renewed attention to the often-overlooked issue of female-perpetrated sexual abuse.
Clinical Psychologist Dr Gérard Labuschagne explained that such crimes are underreported, especially when the offender is female.
“Like many sex crimes we don’t know the true reporting stats, but also for female offenders I think society sees them differently compared to male sex offenders which contributes to less reporting compared to males.”
He added that female-perpetrated violent and sexual crime is less common overall, though he has seen several cases involving women abusing children, either alone or in connection with male partners,while some of these women are coerced, others act independently.
Labuschagne cited a study of 12 female sex offenders, finding most were young mothers with troubled pasts, often with histories of abuse and mental illness, including depression, anxiety, and substance misuse.
He said many had personality disorders and complex motivations—some acted to please partners, others out of jealousy, revenge, or a need for emotional control. Some displayed deviant sexual interest, contradicting the stereotype of women as passive or coerced participants. While a small number were pressured by partners, this was not the norm. Victims were typically known to the offender and abuse often occurred in private, prolonged periods within the home.
Clinical Psychologist Ivan De Klerk echoed Labuschagne’s views, stating that female offenders are more commonly accomplices rather than primary perpetrators, and such cases are easily overlooked.
He emphasised: “This is an uncommon occurrence,” adding that boys are even less likely to report abuse by women due to stigma. He urged society to “keep an open mind. The world is changing. React to any abuse the same: with care and a lot of validation for the victims.”
Siya Monakali of Ilitha Labantu reinforced what De Klerk said stating that “sexual violence knows no boundaries.
Ilitha Labantu has worked on cases involving boys being abused by women in trusted environments, like homes, schools, or religious institutions.
“This should not be minimised based on the perpetrator’s gender. Harm cannot be measured against stereotypes,” he said, adding that disbelief or minimisation especially in cases where women are perpetrators further traumatizes victims.
Monakali said boys often carry their trauma in silence due to fear of shame or not being believed. “When they do disclose, the abuse is too often mischaracterised as consensual or trivial.”
He stressed the importance of recognising that abuse by women can be driven by trauma, psychological issues, or power abuse, but recognising these factors must never come at the cost of accountability.
“Systems must be survivor-centred, and all disclosures must be taken seriously, regardless of the abuser’s gender. Ilitha Labantu provides counselling, legal support, and community-based care for survivors, and works with schools and families to ensure their protection and healing.”
Celeste Louw of TEARS highlighted the psychological harm inflicted when the abuser is an authority figure.
“Children are taught to trust and obey authority figures, and so this kind of abuse disrupts a child’s ability to understand safe boundaries. When the abuser is a woman, especially a caregiver, the confusion and betrayal are intensified.”
She noted that children struggle more to identify and disclose abuse by women due to a lack of societal awareness and the fear of not being believed.
Louw explained that boys in particular face stereotypes that suggest they should enjoy female attention, making disclosure more difficult. These myths can invalidate a boy’s trauma and lead to shame and isolation.
“Long-term effects include depression, PTSD, identity confusion, and difficulty in relationships. Recovery from any form sexual abuse is a long, personal journey,” she said.
Louw called on schools to play a stronger role in prevention and response, including training staff, recognising abuse signs, and fostering a survivor-centred environment.
The TEARS Foundation’s “Speak Up” programme provides discreet, free support and reporting tools to help young people navigate these sensitive issues. Support is available 24/7 via their toll-free line.
Weekend Argus
