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Sexual vs Factual descriptions

When reporting cases of child sexual abuse (CSA) and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) do you need to include violent or sexualised descriptions? How do graphic details benefit survivors? Who are these details for?

The statements should not portray a consensual sexual relationship

  • Say Forced/Touched - Not Caressed/Fondled
  • Say Underwear - Not lingerie
  • Say Genitals - Not private parts
  • Say Assaulted - Not engaged in sexual activities
  • Say Rape - Not non-consensual sex
  • Say Abuse - Not Affair
  • Say Sexual Abuse - Not Sexual Relationship
  • Say underage child - Not underage woman/man (they are not woman/man they are factually and legally children)
  • Say Exploited/Manipulated - Not Initiated
  • Say Groomed - Not Condition/Prepare
  • Say Forced - Not performed
  • Say Victim of Human Trafficking - Not Child Prostitution
  • Say charged with raping a child - Not charged with sex with a minor



Learn more about our CSAM Media guidelines for reporting on child sexual abuse.

Sexual vs Factual descriptions
16.07.2023
Photo by INHOPE
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When reporting cases of child sexual abuse (CSA) and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) ask yourself if certain details are helpful or harmful.

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