Challenges and Implications of Behind Screen-Based Therapy for Sexual Abuse Children in the Arab sector in Israel: Understanding the Psychological and Technological Mechanisms and The Impact on the Treatment Effectiveness

Abstract

This study was conducted to explore the difficulties and consequences of online therapy for sexual abuse children during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Arab sector in Israel. Using a qualitative methodology, the study involved interviews with 35 therapists who provided online therapy to child victims of sexual abuse in the Arab sector in Israel. The findings highlighted significant challenges, such as inadequate preparation, lack of specialized platforms, and difficulties in establishing trust and close relationship through digital means among therapists, especially in the Arab sector in Israel. Therapists and patients both faced issues with maintaining confidentiality, ensuring a safe therapeutic environment, and dealing with the impersonal nature of online interactions. The study concluded that online therapy, as practiced during the pandemic, was often ineffective and sometimes harmful, emphasizing the need for better preparation, resources, and building special digital tools for sensitive cases, such as sexual abused which is considered a taboo in the Arab society.