A meta-analysis on the prevalence of online sexual offenses experienced by children

BACKGROUND: There have been increasing reports of internet related offenses with regard to solicitation and exploitation of children (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre [CEOP], 2010; Kloess, Beech & Harkins,... [ view full abstract ]

BACKGROUND: There have been increasing reports of internet related offenses with regard to solicitation and exploitation of children (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre [CEOP], 2010; Kloess, Beech & Harkins, 2014). However, the prevalence of such offenses, which include online/internet sexual grooming, exploitation, solicitation, and/or contact with children aged 0-18, vary widely, likely a result of between-study heterogeneity due to sample and methodological variation. Meta-analyses are the best method in developmental science for resolving discrepancies in the literature, and for testing under which conditions prevalence rates are particularly strong, which can in turn lead to the development of the most relevant and targeted interventions. OBJECTIVES: We will conduct a meta-analysis to determine the prevalence of online sexual offenses experienced by children. METHOD: We conducted a comprehensive literature search of abstracts in several databases (e.g., PsycInfo), resulting in 917 non-duplicate abstracts. A set of inclusion criteria and a data extraction form were created, with possible moderators to consider (i.e., child age). RESULTS: Preliminary analyses revealed that the mean prevalence rates of unwanted online sexual contact across several prevalence studies that included 7,696 participants was 21.2%. That is, 21.2% of children report that they have been exposed to unwanted sexual material and/or messages with sexual content while online. Between-study heterogeneity was identified and child age emerged as a significant moderator: prevalence rate decreased as child age increased. CONCLUSIONS: Given this large rate of exposure, online sexual offenses should be considered a prevalent issue. Further research on the impact of exposure on children’s safety and well-being, as well as predictors of risks for escalation toward offline sexual offenses, is needed. The moderator analyses suggest that younger children are more susceptible to online sexual content exposure and thus, prevention and intervention efforts should target this age group.