Large investigation launched into effects of child pornography on victims

From today Dutch victims of child pornography can take part in a large international investigation on what effects this type of child abuse has on its victims. The goal for this study is to improve aid given to these victims. The the consequences suffered by children who fell victim to child pornography are often different than that of victims whose abused was not filmed, according to Corrine Dettmeijer, the National Rapporteur on Human Trafficking and Sexual Violence against children. "When you go through something terrible, you want to give it a place and close yourself off from it at some point. If footage was made of the abuse, then they can continue to circulate", she explained to broadcaster NOS. "There are always new people who see the footage. Therefore it can be quite difficult to separate from the abuse." It could also mean that things that are everyday occurrences for other people, are ordeals for the victims. "A simple question like 'gee, don't I know you from somewhere?' can send alarm bells ringing for victims." On her website, the Rapporteur writes that there is tons of research on the consequences of sexual abuse, but still little on the effects of child pornography. In this study, victims can say what they wished they had while undergoing counseling. In this way, future aid can be improved. "To be able to help victims well, it is important to hear from them what they need." Dettmeijer said. Dutch victims of child pornography who want to participate in the study can complete the 130 questions online. Dettmeijer warns that taking part may be hard on victims and refers them to the website Verbreek de stilte or telephone number 0900-9999001 for emotional support shuld they need it.