'So what about the stories?' An exploratory study of the definition, use, and function of Narrative Child Sexual Exploitation Material. Issue 2 (7th February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Crookes, Rebecca L.; Merdian, Hannah L.; Hassett, Charlotte L.
• Is Part Of: Psychology, crime & law. Volume 23:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 171
• Page End: 179
• Publication Date: 2017-02-07
• Subjects: Child sexual exploitation material -- Narrative Child Sexual Exploitation Material -- thematic analysis -- child abusive images -- online sex offending; Criminal psychology -- Periodicals; Law -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; 364.3
• DOI: 10.1080/1068316X.2016.1239099
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1068-316X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The legal and psychological research surrounding online Child Sexual Exploitation Material (CSEM) is focused on visual depictions of children, either as still images or movies. Narrative CSEM (N-CSEM) describes an under-researched area, resulting from difficulties surrounding its conceptualisation, both legally as well as concerning the function for its users. The current study describes an initial attempt in defining N-CSEM in comparison to visual material, based on interviews with users of CSEM and N-CSEM and professionals working with this user group. Thematic Analysis resulted in three super-ordinate themes. All themes were analysed and enriched from the perspectives of user- and service-representatives. The study provides insight into N-CSEM as a separate entity from visual CSEM, challenging and informing legal decision-making and assessment and treatment providers for users of CSEM.