This rapid evidence review examined 17 studies on pathways to the onset of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) offending. Eight factors were identified that contribute to the onset of CSAM offending, spanning three categories: developmental (negative childhood experiences), motivational (sexual interest in children, desire for sexual gratification) and situational or facilitating factors (accidental first exposure to CSAM, pornography use and the online environment, sexual arousal, offence-supportive cognitions, psychosocial issues and maladaptive coping). Evidence in this area is limited, and further research on the factors leading to CSAM offending is required. Nevertheless, this review highlights the importance of technological interventions on pornography sites and early psychological intervention for individuals at risk of viewing CSAM.
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