Abstract

This essay is based on the film “Jagten” (“The Hunt”) directed by Thomas Vinterberg (2012), in which it is possible to address problematic issues related to the truth of discourse, sexuality and violence. The recognition of children’s rights and the reconceptualization of children as active agents, and not as mere objects of research, has given the status of truth to children’s words. In this way, the disqualification of the veracity of children’s testimonies, justified by the matrix that adult discourse imprints on child discourse, has been overcome. However, listening to children’s voices requires specific training, skills and techniques. In this sense, the film warns us that the respectful eagerness in favor of children’s rights is not free of difficulties. The article points out the consequences of an adult-centric culture, based on a tutelary conception that conceives adulthood as a role model and places children as minors (defective persons, with less value, capacity, etc.). With this, children’s speech is rejected, and the interpretation of the results is based on the word of the adult who suggests the answers. The truth of children’s desire is therefore obscured, veiled in a supposed reality that victimizes the girl and judges the alleged abuser. The symbolic violence of the creation of a discourse based on “science” is thus exercised, with its effects on the masses.

Keywords: Sexual abuse | victim | child speech | truth of desire