Attachment, Development, and Online Solicitation: An Application of Theory to Prevention and Intervention
Kirsten Byrnes, PsyD, ABPP | September 18 | 1:45-2:45 pm
Topic: Direct Service | Knowledge Level: Advanced
Children and young people voraciously consume technology and social media, expanding social connections and relationships far beyond previous generations. With such advances, it has been argued, young people are at greater risk of exposure to unwanted sexual material and advances via these media. Some youth appear to be particularly vulnerable to internet solicitation, placing them at significant risk of subsequent sexual victimization. This presentation is an extension of last year’s discussion at the IHTSJ Conference. It will serve to review basic theory and how early disruptions in attachment and developmental needs contribute to vulnerability to internet solicitation and sexual exploitation and trafficking. Using this information as a springboard, the discussion will highlight various avenues of improving prevention, detection, and intervention, ranging from parent education, to provider education, to greater system involvement and program development.
Presentation Objectives:
• Explore how attachment and development may contribute to specific vulnerabilities to online grooming and solicitation
• Discuss various applications of theory in improving prevention, detection and intervention