Self-help program

Think about the misconception and the reality behind them.

• What do you think about them?

Misconception 1

Children are sexual beings, just like adults.

Reality 1

Based on what we know about children’s sexual development, we can conclude that children do not identify themselves as sexual beings in the same way as adults do, and they have difficulties with understanding adults’ sexual acts and feelings.

Misconception 2

Pictures do not harm anyone. Using CSAM is a “victimless crime”.

Reality 2

Many individuals who have their photograph circulating on the internet against their will, feel that they are being abused over and over again. The child may feel intense feelings of losing control and powerlessness, which are related to the fact that the child is unable to make decisions regarding themselves and their bodies.

Misconception 3

The child themselves has taken the picture and made it public. Therefore, it has been the child’s decision and they feel good about their choice.

Reality 3

Children are not able to make good decisions regarding their well-being and often make mistakes (e.g. experimenting with drugs and alcohol) that they regret later on. This is because they are still developing and they are unable to think about the consequences of their actions in the long run. Therefore, it is the adults’ responsibility to protect children and not to strive to benefit from their mistakes and poor choices.

Misconception 4

Someone else produced the material. In any case, this material is circulating on the web. It is not my fault that it is available.

Reality 4 

Demand generates supply. The more people willing to access and use the material, the more it will be generated and made available. By being part of the demand, you are personally contributing to the supply of CSAM.​