Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), historically referred to as child pornography, is a growing area of unique and complex sexual victimization. Although known as a non-contact sexual crime, CSAM can lead to contact sexual abuse - resulting in additional layers of sexual trauma. Increasingly, more and more victims of CSAM are emerging. Although lacking, peer-reviewed research exploring the impact of CSAM on victims/survivors and the unique clinical presentations and therapeutic needs of this population is developing. Preliminary literature findings and information suggest that, unlike a trauma-focused, one-size-fits-all approach, CSAM victims/survivors require a less structured approach emphasizing rapport building and the therapeutic relationship. As a clinical way to address these needs, expressive interventions are a promising approach for therapeutic work with this distinct population. A review of the burgeoning literature on CSAM and the therapeutic needs of this population will be examined. Using this foundation as a means by which traumatic symptoms can be reduced, clinical considerations and therapeutic interventions will be provided. The link from research to practice will be emphasized. Clinical examples will be provided.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able to identify clinical needs of children and adolescents impacted by child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and sexual exploitation per peer-reviewed publications
After the workshop, participants will be able to identify and discuss the use of expressive approaches with victims/survivors of CSAM and child sexual exploitation
Participants will be able to describe and possess a minimum of 10 trauma-informed therapeutic interventions for therapy with victims of CSAM and child sexual exploitation
