A Multicenter, Randomized, Waitlist Controlled Trial of Mi Bridge Motivational Interviewing to Encourage Help-seeking in Individuals with Sexual Interest in Children

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of Mi Bridge, an anonymous online program based on Motivational Interviewing, to encourage high-risk individuals with sexual interest in children to seek treatment. The study aims to improve access to safe, evidence-based care in multiple languages and countries, focusing on reducing the risk of child sexual abuse and improving participants health. The main questions include whether Mi Bridge increases help-seeking behavior and motivation to change sexual behaviors involving children. The intervention involves up to five anonymous conversations via voice calls or text chat over three weeks, helping participants understand themselves and their willingness to change while connecting them to care they need. Participants are randomly assigned either to receive Mi Bridge or to a waitlist with no active intervention but weekly assessments. Recruitment occurs through Darknet and Clearnet platforms, with informed consent obtained anonymously. After joining, participants complete baseline questionnaires and regular weekly self-assessments during and after the intervention or waitlist periods to measure motivation, sexual interest, behaviors, depression symptoms, and risk factors. These evaluations help researchers assess the interventions effectiveness and safety. The study duration and follow-up details are structured around pre-intervention, during intervention, and immediate post-intervention timepoints.

Mi Bridge - Motivational Interviewing to Facilitate Help-seeking Among Individuals with Sexual Interest in Children