Sexual offending with child-like sex dolls in Australia: An analysis of court cases

Abstract

This study analyses 14 Australian court cases involving child-like sex dolls (CLSDs) to examine patterns of sexual offending, the role of these dolls in relation to child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and their legal treatment under Australian law. The article explores key demographic and behavioural features of perpetrators, most of whom were male, first-time offenders with a diagnosis of pedophilic disorder or deviant sexual interests. In most cases, perpetrators were also found in possession of CSAM, with some offences involving the manipulation of CLSDs using photos of real children or engaging in contact abuse. While concerns exist that CLSDs may escalate behaviour to contact child sexual abuse, the evidence presented suggests that most perpetrators were already engaged in CSAM-related offences. The authors argue for further research and national standardisation of risk assessment and legal responses, highlighting the limitations of current legal and ethical frameworks in addressing CLSDs.