The Child Protection Response to Victims of Technology-Assisted Child Sexual Abuse

Abstract

Technology-assisted child sexual abuse (TA-CSA) is a contemporary child protection issue, yet myths about the seriousness of this form of physical, sexual and emotional abuse can contribute to victims receiving an ineffective response from professionals. This article aims to locate TA-CSA within child protection legislation and practice, to promote an understanding of its position as a child protection issue. It explores existing research into TA-CSA, to offer insight and guidance for professionals who work with children and families. Importantly, it highlights how the role of technology and the internet should be considered in all assessments with children and families to more accurately understand a child's lived experience, and to prevent, identify and respond to TA-CSA effectively.