Troubled-Desire & Therapeutic Chat for Reduction of CSAM Use (TD-CHAT)

Launched by CHARITE UNIVERSITY, BERLIN, GERMANY · Feb 24, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The TD-CHAT trial is a study that aims to help individuals reduce their use of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) through two types of support: a Therapist Chat Service (TCS) and a Selfhelp Platform. The study focuses on adults, mainly men, who have shown a sexual interest in children and have either recently used CSAM or are at risk. Participants will be assigned to different groups to see which type of support is most effective in decreasing CSAM behaviors and improving overall well-being.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be at least 18 years old, have used CSAM in the last two weeks or have a past history of use, and be able to understand English, German, or Spanish. They will receive online self-help modules and may also chat with trained therapists. It’s important to note that individuals with severe mental health issues, a history of committing child sexual abuse, or who are currently involved in legal issues related to this matter will not be eligible for the study. The trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to provide valuable support for those looking to change their behavior.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adult participant (≥18 years);
• • recent (last 2 weeks) CSAM use or past CSAM use and self-reported risk;
• • proficiency in English, German or Spanish;
• • voluntary participation and agreement to the terms of the study.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Severe neuropsychiatric comorbidities (unstable psychotic disorder, organic brain damage, diminished intellectual functioning, untreated drug or alcohol addiction);
• • history of contact CSA perpetration (past or present);
• • ongoing criminal investigation, trial, punishment, or probation status for online or offline CSA or CSAM use;
• • current inpatient psychiatric treatment or other concurrent treatment targeting CSAM behaviours