Fantasy depictions of child sexual abuse: The problem of ageplay in Second Life

This paper explores the arguments put forward for prohibiting the possession of fantasy
images of child sexual abuse within the Coroners and Justice Act 2009, and applies them
to sexual ageplay in Second Life. Sexual ageplay is the virtual act of simulating child
sexual abuse using animated child characters operated by consenting adult users. The
arguments underpinning the legislation centre on the issue of harm and the relationship
between online, virtual behaviour and real world contact offences. It is argued that extant
research does not support a causal connection, although some work on fantasy offence
planning and online paedophilia chat groups suggests a link. Due to the lack of empirical
work in the area it is concluded that legislation to criminalise such behaviour on grounds of
harm causation is currently unjustified, although prohibition of sexual ageplay for known
sex offenders is recommended. Further research into the extent, use and effects of sexual
ageplay is required.