A Multicenter, Waitlist Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial of a Self-Help Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program for Individuals with Sexual Interest in Children

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the ReDirection program, a self-help cognitive behavioral therapy designed for individuals with low to medium risk of committing child sexual abuse who have sexual interest in children and use child sexual abuse material CSAM. The study aims to test if ReDirection is a feasible, effective, and safe method to reduce CSAM use and related behaviors while improving the health of participants. This international multicenter study uses a randomized waitlist controlled design and includes participants from six countries speaking seven different languages. The ReDirection program consists of five modules that help participants better understand and manage risky sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Participants are either actively engaged in this self-help program or placed on a waitlist without intervention but complete the same weekly questionnaires. The intervention is provided through an online platform, and participants can anonymously contact a practitioner by chat if needed. The program includes an anonymous follow-up chat after completion. Participants join the study by consenting online without revealing personal identifying information and complete a baseline survey with validated questionnaires. Weekly assessments occur during the waitlist and intervention phases to evaluate effectiveness and safety. Outcome measures include sexual interest involving children, CSAM use, related behaviors, depressive symptoms, dynamic risk factors for abuse, and hypersexuality, all assessed at multiple points. The study is sponsored by Karolinska Institutet and began in September 2023, continuing until October 2024.

ReDirection - Self Help Program for Individuals with Sexual Interest in Children