Professionals’ conceptualisation of technology-assisted harmful sexual behaviour (TA-HSB): a case vignette study
Publication Date
December 10, 2025
Creator
Abstract
Technology-assisted Harmful Sexual Behaviour (TA-HSB) by young people is a growing area of concern, which brings young people into contact with statutory and voluntary sector services. In attempting to reduce recidivism and mitigate the impact on young people, professionals within these services bring a range of knowledge, experience and training to their understanding of this behaviour, despite a limited evidence base. The current study aimed to explore the formulation process of eight professionals working in UK services with TA-HSB, including the content and quality of the formulations developed. The think-aloud method was used for participants to formulate using a hypothetical case vignette, and the resulting formulations were quality rated. Framework analysis of the transcripts showed that participants considered the wide range of factors which had been identified in previous research, but they also highlighted the role of social media influencers as an area of concern noted in their practice. Participants’ approach to formulating this behaviour was analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis of the transcripts, and the results are presented within a process model of conceptualising TA-HSB. Implications for how these findings can be applied in training and development within this work are described. Limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are explored.
Item Type
ethesis
Thesis Type
DClinPsy
Supervisors
Subjects (LC)
Associated Schools / Departments
School of Medicine
eprints ID
82376
UoN Repository URI
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BRP 20511265 27166455 Thesis Resubmission.pdf
Type
Full-text
Description
Examined. Resubmission
Size
2.87 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
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