Understanding and responding to online child sexual exploitation offenders

Background

The development of online communications technologies has facilitated a growth in online child sexual exploitation over the past two decades.

Aim

This project aims to enhance understanding of online child sexual exploitation; the legal frameworks surrounding this issue; and the unique characteristics, risks and needs of online sexual offenders.

Methods

This project uses a data linkage framework.

Significance

Expected outcomes include increased knowledge to inform current law enforcement and sentencing practices and the development of risk assessment and intervention protocols for clinical use with online offenders. These should increase evidence-based practice with online sexual offenders and assist in preventing the sexual exploitation of children online and in the community.

Funding Body

Australian Research Council (Project ID: LP180100090)

Funding Budget

$502,106

Project start date

June 2020

Expected completion date

June 2024