Lay Person Viewpoints of Computer-Generated Child Pornography and Sexual Violence Prevention

• In Event: Community Correction Measures and Practices: Classification, Assessment, and Evaluation

Abstract

Until the innovation of computer-generated child pornography, child pornography was a physical “record of the systematic rape, abuse, and torture of children on film and photograph" (Edwards, 2000, p. 1). Computer-generated child pornography produced purely from the human imagination is a victimless crime. Due to the legal status of computer-generated child pornography in the United States, the effects computer-generated child pornography produces on its users is unknown; however, it may be possible computer-generated child pornography is suitable for preventing sexual violence (Diamond, Jozikova, & Weiss, 2011). Given the significant public health issues sexual violence presents for victims and communities, it is important to consider even controversial prevention methods for sexual aggression.
The study investigates people’s perceptions of computer-generated child pornography as a preventative measure for individuals interested in the use of child pornography. Viewpoints about other preventative measures are also compared (e.g., treatment and computer monitoring). Participants were drawn from both undergraduate student (N = 500) and online (N = 200) samples. This is the first known study to consider general population views of this controversial prevention measure for individuals interested in child pornography use. Implications are listed as they relate to prevention and treatment policies.

Authors

• Sarah A. Steele, Sam Houston State University

• Brandy L. Blasko, Sam Houston State University