Challenges Faced by Parents in Preventing Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse: Protocol for a Systematic...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Child Psychology
• Digital Safety

Background:

• Online child sexual abuse and exploitation (OCSEA) is a growing global concern.
• OCSEA presents unique challenges compared to traditional forms of abuse.
• Parents are vital in preventing OCSEA, but their challenges are underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify parental challenges in preventing OCSEA.
• Explore contributing factors to these challenges.
• Highlight knowledge and practice gaps in supporting parents against OCSEA.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of primary research studies (qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods).
• Searches across multiple databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, etc.) from 2018 onwards.
• Narrative synthesis following PRISMA guidelines, with two independent reviewers.

Main Results:

• Data collection and analysis planned from August 2025 to February 2026.
• Findings will be reported adhering to PRISMA standards.
• The review will synthesize existing research on parental challenges in OCSEA prevention.

Conclusions:

• This systematic review protocol provides a framework for understanding parental challenges in OCSEA prevention.
• Results will inform the development of targeted support resources for parents.
• The study aims to enhance strategies for safeguarding children in the digital environment.