Dealing with the psychological effects of online child abuse

As Chair of the Virtual Global Taskforce (VGT), the AFP has helped develop an international network of psychologists working closely with people dealing with online child sexual exploitation operations.

The network allows VGT agencies to share psychological research and strategies to help deal with the stress experienced by police officers committed to fighting paedophilia and online child sexual exploitation.

So far, representatives from six of the nine VGT partner agencies have joined the network, including Heidi Horvath from AFP Wellbeing Services.

“I look forward to working with other colleagues across the globe on this vital, challenging and ground breaking area of work.” Heidi said.

“Developing and conducting research in an area where the research is minimal, and sharing strategies and experiences with colleagues dealing with similar situations will be invaluable, and all of us will greatly benefit from this new network.”

International clinical psychologist Annabel Poate-Joyner, who has working affiliations with VGT agency INTERPOL, said “I welcome the VGT psychology network with open arms and will be delighted to link with other colleagues also working in this important and challenging topic.

“It will be invaluable to be able to share professional thoughts and experiences with like-minded colleagues through this new initiative.”

During the last VGT Conference, hosted by the AFP in December 2010, a key presentation was given on the psychological effects of long-term exposure to child sex abuse material.

Working with such material has been found to have an adverse effect on law enforcement officers.

Strategies discussed to combat the negative psychological effects focussed on protective cognitive processes and creating a workplace where helpful policies are in place and peers and leaders are supportive.