The impact of child sexual abuse material (CSAM): A systematic review of victim-survivor, caregiver and professional qualitative perspectives

The proliferation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) has generated more victim-survivors than ever. Current research focusing on offenders and prevention overlooks the direct impact upon victim-survivors, implicating support systems. This narrative systematic literature review aimed to understand the lived experiences and perceived impacts of CSAM victimisation as reported by victim-survivors, caregivers and professionals, by examining qualitative data from 17 studies through the lens of trauma theory. OVID, Web of Science, EBSCO Host, SCOPUS and ProQuest databases were searched between February and March 2024, updated in February 2025 prior to publication. Qualitative studies, where there was an evaluation of the impact, harm or consequence of CSAM offending, were included. Four broad categories provided a framework for understanding CSAM impact: the psychological and emotional impacts, encompassing negative emotions and distress from the complexities of material permanence; social and relational impacts, including the challenges of abuse recognition and disclosure; systemic and secondary impacts, including inadequate professional responses and identity and meaning-making, encompassing transformative advocacy, reflecting the potential for post-traumatic growth and redefining of identity. Findings highlight the need for enhanced professional training and support, youth-focused educational campaigns, opportunities for advocacy, consistent use of universal terminology and enforced regulation of technology industries.