*1.4. Rationale*

To date, we located only one study that explores the existing procedural challenges of CSAM investigations from the perspective of investigators. Powell et al. (2014b), utilized anonymous telephone surveys to interview investigators of CSAM across multiple jurisdictions in Australia. The study published findings on the operational stressors that investigators of CSAM face and discussed how these stressors affect investigators' capacity to perform their role. Their study concluded the chief challenges investigators faced included the following: a lack of supportive work relationships and high staff turnover, poor work resources due to large case volume, inadequate staffing and insufficient training, and open-plan workspaces where CSAM investigations could only be conducted with minimal privacy. Previous research has focused on the content of CSAM and the trauma experienced by law enforcement and other personnel who review these images (Burns et al. 2008; Krause 2009; Powell et al. 2014a, 2015). However, there is limited research on best and emerging practices for investigating cases of CSAM, including methods to facilitate CSAM disclosure, identifying victims portrayed in CSAM, identifying offenders and employing methods to deter creation and distribution of CSAM. Extending beyond a primary focus on the impact of exposure to CSAM on investigators, the purpose of the current study seeks to understand factors influencing best practices and common challenges for investigating and prosecuting cases of CSAM.
