An investigation of healthcare professionals’ perspectives on the role of technology in child sexual abuse

Abstract

ABSTRACT Evidence suggests an increasing involvement of technology and online activities in child sexual abuse (CSA); however, empirical knowledge of the phenomenon is limited. This study investigated the role technology/online activities play in CSA, from the perspectives of healthcare professionals. Fifteen multidisciplinary healthcare professionals specialising in CSA assessment and therapy for children and adolescents completed a semi-structured interview. Results indicate technology and online activities can feature in the facilitation, perpetration, and aftermath of CSA in various ways, presenting unique challenges for victims, caregivers, and involved professionals. A range of complexities were noted in relation to CSA where there is a cyber component (e.g. permanence and reach of CSA images online), and implications for assessment and therapy at the child, parent/guardian, and clinician levels (e.g. tolerating uncertainty regarding images existing online). These findings are summarised in a diagrammatic framework, alongside priorities and prerequisites for addressing the problem of online/technology-assisted CSA.