STOP-CSAM

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Child sexual abuse encompasses actions such as exposing a child to sexual acts or abuse, engaging in sexual acts with a child, and coercing, compelling, or threatening a child to partake in sexual activities with another individual. (Adapted from Luxembourg terminology guidelines; 2011: Article 3 EU Directive 2011/93)

Child sexual abuse material, previously referred to as 'child pornography', includes:

• Any visual depiction of a child engaged in real or simulated sexually explicit actions.
• Portrayals of a child's sexual organs primarily for sexual purposes.
• Visual representations of an individual appearing to be a child involved in real or simulated sexually explicit conduct or any depiction of the sexual organs of a person seeming to be a child, primarily for sexual purposes.
• Lifelike images showing a child in sexually explicit actions or the sexual organs of a child, primarily for sexual reasons.

Adapted from Luxembourg Terminology Guidelines; 2011: Article 2 of EU Directive 2011/93

This website is designed for individuals seeking information about the STOP-CSAM project, which the European Commission funds. For those needing therapeutic support and self-management tools, please visit troubled-desire.com. Whether you're a professional, a concerned individual, or someone seeking assistance, this site aims to provide insights into the STOP-CSAM project.

CSAM stands for "Child Sexual Abuse Material." It is sometimes called "Child Sexual Exploitation Material" (CSEM). Both terms describe materials that capture or portray acts that are sexually abusive or exploitative towards children. This encompasses any images or videos where a child is involved in sexual conduct. Recognising such materials' serious and illegal nature and the profound harm they cause to victims is essential.

Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) refers to material that visually depicts minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The creation, distribution, and possession of CSAM are illegal in many jurisdictions worldwide. The negative consequences of CSAM for victims are profound and multifaceted. Here are some of the critical consequences:

• Psychological Trauma: Victims of CSAM often suffer from severe psychological trauma. This can manifest as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues. The trauma can persist for years or even a lifetime.
• Re-victimization: Every time CSAM is viewed, shared, or distributed, the victim is re-victimized. Knowing that their images or videos are circulating can cause ongoing distress and harm.
• Trust Issues: Victims may develop trust issues, especially if the abuse was perpetrated by someone they knew and trusted. This can affect their ability to form healthy relationships in the future.
• Shame and Stigmatization: Victims often feel a deep sense of shame and guilt, even though they are not at fault. Society's stigmatisation of sexual abuse can exacerbate these feelings.
• Physical Harm: The creation of CSAM often involves physical abuse. This can lead to physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and other health issues.
• Impaired Social Development: Victims may struggle with social interactions and forming peer bonds due to trauma and trust issues.
• Substance Abuse: Some victims use drugs or alcohol to cope with the trauma, leading to substance abuse issues.
• Increased Risk of Future Victimization: Research has shown that individuals sexually abused as children are at a higher risk of being victimized again.
• Economic Consequences: The trauma and psychological effects can impact a victim's ability to work or study, leading to economic hardships.
• Legal and Digital Footprint: Even if the material is removed from one platform, it can resurface on others. This ongoing digital footprint can haunt victims for years, affecting their personal and professional lives.
• Relationship Strains: The trauma can strain relationships with family and friends, especially if they are unaware of the abuse or do not know how to support the victim.
• Fear and Paranoia: Victims might constantly fear being recognised from the material, leading to paranoia and anxiety in public spaces.

The reasons individuals engage with CSAM are multifaceted and complex. Some of the prevalent reasons include:

• Sexual Issues: Challenges in one's sexual life can sometimes lead to seeking alternative, albeit harmful, outlets.
• Specific Sexual Interests: Some individuals have a sexual interest in children or are attracted to CSAM.
• Sexual Gratification: CSAM might be used to achieve sexual arousal and gratification.
• Accidental Exposure: Not all encounters with CSAM are intentional; some may stumble upon it.
• Curiosity: The human inclination towards the forbidden can lead some to explore CSAM out of sheer curiosity.
• Addiction: Internet and pornography addiction can sometimes escalate to consuming illegal materials like CSAM.

Regardless of the reason, it's crucial to emphasise that engaging with CSAM is harmful and illegal. Those who consume it should be encouraged to seek help and discontinue its use to protect children and uphold the law.

Offering therapeutic services to CSAM users is vital for several reasons:

• Prevention: Therapy can deter further abuse and potential legal infractions. Through treatment, individuals can learn healthier coping mechanisms and ways to lead a positive, harm-free life.
• Well-being: Therapy can enhance an individual's mental and emotional well-being.
• Safe Choices: Therapeutic guidance can empower individuals to make safer decisions and avoid problematic behaviours.
• By addressing the root causes and providing support, we aim to break the cycle of abuse and foster a safer community.