Victims of online sexual abuse face unique challenges. The trauma experienced can be even more severe than contact abuse, both for children and caregivers. Professionals need to be equipped to address emotional, psychological, and practical needs, from the first critical days after disclosure to ongoing therapeutic support.
Professionals from various sectors play a vital role in crisis interventions. Social workers, psychologists, police officers, forensic interviewers, Barnahus staff, medical staff, and other child protection professionals must all be prepared to engage with victims and caregivers sensitively and competently. This protocol supports them in meeting the complex needs that arise following online sexual abuse.
The guidelines aim to assist professionals in:
- Providing a trauma-sensitive framework for addressing the psychological and emotional impacts on victims and caregivers.
- Understanding how to navigate the complexities of online sexual abuse and the necessary responses.
- Highlighting collaborative approaches that ensure child safety and emotional stabilisation.
These guidelines complement the Stockholm Barnahus crisis support model, “When something bad has happened” (När något jobbig har hänt). This model helps professionals provide effective crisis interventions for child victims of online sexual abuse.
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