Child Sexual Abuse Material and Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children: What’s the overlap?

• In Event: New Research on Image-Based Sexual Abuse of Children and Youth

Abstract

Both child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) are crimes increasingly known to be perpetrated online; however, it remains unclear the frequency at which these crimes overlap and/or require a tailored investigative approach. To explore this, twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts in the fields of technology-facilitated abuse who work closely- or are formally affiliated- with law enforcement agencies in the United States. Interviews lasted approximately 1 hour, were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and imported into AtlasTI. A grounded theory approach to data analysis was employed in order to understand important nuances in this otherwise nascent area of inquiry. Findings revealed three key themes, each highlighting similarities and differences between CSAM and CSEC crimes: (1) Perpetrator characteristics; (2) Victim Experience; and (3) Digital evidence. Findings highlight specific areas of overlap and important differences between CSAM and CSAM crimes that may be a useful focus for ongoing training within the law enforcement system, as well as loopholes that may inadvertently minimize legal repercussions for perpetrators and support for victims. Findings and implications will be discussed in greater detail via participant quotes, and recommendations based on findings will be presented.

Authors

• Jennifer O'Brien, University of Texas at Austin

• Ayelet Prior, University of New Hampshire

• David Finkelhor, University of New Hampshire

• Kimberly J. Mitchell, University of New Hampshire

• Gina Kahn, University of New Hampshire