Child sex doll and sex robot research: Taking a child rights perspective

Direct child sexual abuse is pervasive, with consistent estimates across reviews and epidemiology at up to 20 % for girls and up to 15 % for boys; the values are in line with additional online exposure to child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). The 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child confirms the child's right to protection, to have their views heard, and to have their best interests as a primary consideration. A child rights perspective requires that child safety and safeguarding are prioritized above adult developmental concerns. This article discusses the issue of one type of child sexual abuse material - child sex dolls and sex robots - i.e., anatomically correct, child-like commercial products for adults with a sexual interest in child materials. These customizable dolls/robotics have child-like features, body orifices and technology-facilitated programmable features. Child sex dolls have been used in therapeutic contexts with self-identified, treatment-seeking adults with various levels of interest in children. While advocates of child sex dolls propose a harm reduction rationale, in terms of satisfying adult sexual choice, there is very little supportive scientific evidence. We discuss the research on the risk-benefit approach to child sex dolls in the context of a child rights framework. With many jurisdictions categorizing these as either illegal or CSAM, we call for a standardized policy and clinical approach to achieve uniform child safeguarding initiatives.