Exploring Self-Reported Child Sexual Contact in Pedophile Support Forums

• In Event: Abuse, Harassment, and Victimization Online

Abstract

Despite increased public concern regarding online sexual offenses, very little research has explored online pedophilic subcultures and social support forums. However, understanding the characteristics and differential risk for contact offenses is critical in order to curate appropriate prevention and law enforcement responses. The current study coded four separate pedophile support forums using categorical characterizations taken from both prior academic research and the DSM-5. The study found that those who reported fantasies of children, mentioned a relationship with a child, and worked in close proximity to children, were more likely to self-disclose contact. Also, those who used a sexually provocative or subculturally-associated username were significantly more likely to report contact. Our findings suggest that forum-specific and user-specific characteristics correlate with differential risk for future perpetration. The study also outlines the challenges of using the DSM-5 in pedophilia diagnoses and opens emerging questions regarding the role of forums in creating new risks.

Authors

• Roberta Liggett, Michigan State University

• Karen Holt, Michigan State University

• Thomas J. Holt, Michigan State University

• Jin R. Lee, Michigan State University