ReDirection / Self-Guided ICBT to Reduce the Risk of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) Use
This study is testing an online program called ReDirection, which is designed to help people concerned about using child sexual abuse material (CSAM). CSAM is a serious problem involving images or videos of children in a sexual way. Many people who use CSAM want to stop but find it hard to get anonymous help. ReDirection is a free, private online program based on a type of talk therapy called CBT. It helps people understand and manage risky thoughts and behaviours related to CSAM. This study will compare two versions of the ReDirection program to see how well they work against a waiting list. Participants will learn skills to manage their urges and behaviours.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is a very serious and widespread problem. This material shows children or teenagers in a sexual way, which is illegal and harmful. Despite many efforts from police and technology companies, the use of CSAM continues to grow. We know that many people who use CSAM want to stop, but often struggle to find help that keeps their identity private.
That's where the ReDirection program comes in. It's a free, anonymous online program designed to help individuals who are worried about their use of CSAM or their urges to use it. The program is based on years of experience and research in helping people manage similar issues. It uses techniques from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a type of talk therapy that helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected, and how to change them.
This study will carefully test two different versions of the ReDirection program, called ReDirection 1.0 and ReDirection 2.0. The main difference between these versions is how long they are and if you can send messages to a specialist. We will also compare these programs to a group of people who are on a waiting list for six weeks before they start the program. This helps us see if the program itself is making a difference. All activities, from signing up to taking part in the program, will happen securely online.
Key takeaways
- ReDirection is a free, anonymous online program for people concerned about using child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
- The study tests two versions of the ReDirection program (ReDirection 1.0 and 2.0).
- It uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques to help manage thoughts and behaviours.
- Participation is entirely online and private.
- The program aims to provide skills to help individuals stop or reduce CSAM use/urges.
- You must be 18 or older and have had recent urges or use of CSAM to join.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be 18 years old or older. You also need to be able to read and understand English or Spanish well. Finally, you must have either used child sexual abuse material (CSAM) or felt strong urges to use it within the last six months.
You cannot join the study if you are under 18 years old. Also, if you can't read and understand English or Spanish, or if you haven't used CSAM or had urges to use it in the past six months, then this study isn't for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you read and understand English or Spanish clearly?
- Have you used child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in the last six months?
- Have you had strong urges to use CSAM in the last six months?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, everything will be done online through a secure website called Iterapi. First, you'll go through a registration process and answer some questions. You'll then be randomly placed into one of three groups: ReDirection 1.0, ReDirection 2.0, or a waiting list group. If you're in the waiting list group, you'll wait for six weeks before starting the active ReDirection program, and during this time you'll answer questions about your urges and behaviours.
The ReDirection programs involve five to six online modules, which you'll work through over five to six weeks. These modules include online learning and exercises that teach you skills to manage unwanted sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. All your participation, including the program and answering questions, will be completed using the online platform.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of Ottawa Integrated Mental Health Research at The RoyalVerified postcodeOttawa, Canada· Recruiting
- Protect Children NGOVerified postcodeHelsinki, Finland· Recruiting
Common questions
What is CSAM?
CSAM stands for Child Sexual Abuse Material. It means any images, videos, or other materials that show children in a sexual way. It's illegal and incredibly harmful.
Is this program anonymous?
Yes, the ReDirection program is designed to be completely anonymous to protect your privacy.
What kind of therapy is ReDirection based on?
It's based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is a type of talk therapy that helps you understand and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours.
How long does the ReDirection program last?
The program involves five to six online modules that typically take five to six weeks to complete.
What happens if I'm put on the waiting list?
If you're in the waiting-list group, you'll wait six weeks before starting the full ReDirection program. During this time, you'll answer questions about your urges and behaviours online.
How to find out more
Carissa Augustyn, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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