Back to Search Start Over

Experiences of a digital health intervention for young people exposed to technology assisted sexual abuse: a qualitative study

Authors :
Ethel Quayle
Amanda Larkin
Matthias Schwannauer
Filippo Varese
Kim Cartwright
Prathiba Chitsabesan
Victoria Green
Gillian Radford
Cathy Richards
Sara Shafi
Pauline Whelan
Cindy Chan
William Hewins
Alice Newton
Erica Niebauer
Marina Sandys
Jennifer Ward
Sandra Bucci
Source :
BMC Psychiatry, Vol 24, Iss 1, Pp 1-12 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
BMC, 2024.

Abstract

Abstract Background There is growing evidence that Technology Assisted Sexual Abuse (TASA) represents a serious problem for large numbers of children. To date, there are very few evidence-based interventions available to young people (YP) after they have been exposed to this form of abuse, and access to support services remains a challenge. Digital tools such as smartphones have the potential to increase access to mental health support and may provide an opportunity for YP to both manage their distress and reduce the possibility of further victimization. The current study explores the acceptability of a digital health intervention (DHI; the i-Minds app) which is a theory-driven, co-produced, mentalization-based DHI designed for YP aged 12–18 who have experienced TASA. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 YP recruited through Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre and an e-therapy provider who had access to the i-Minds app as part of a feasibility clinical trial. Interviews focused on the acceptability and usability of i-Minds and were coded to themes based on the Acceptability of Healthcare Interventions framework. Results All participants found the i-Minds app acceptable. Many aspects of the app were seen as enjoyable and useful in helping YP understand their abuse, manage feelings, and change behavior. The app was seen as usable and easy to navigate, but for some participants the level of text was problematic and aspects of the content was, at times, emotionally distressing at times. Conclusions The i-Minds app is useful in the management of TASA and helping change some risk-related vulnerabilities. The app was designed, developed and evaluated with YP who had experienced TASA and this may account for the high levels of acceptability seen. Trial registration The trial was registered on the ISRCTN registry on the 12/04/2022 as i-Minds: a digital intervention for young people exposed to online sexual abuse (ISRCTN43130832).

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1471244X
Volume :
24
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
BMC Psychiatry
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.9437fb3b7f5b49c5973cfc73cd366b4f
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-024-05605-6