(865) Barriers to Help-Seeking Behaviors in Minor-Attracted People: A Scoping Review

Introduction There is awareness of the mental health needs of minor-attracted persons (MAP), but barriers still limit their access to care, while the amount of evidence on what influences their help-seeking behavior remains lacking. Although child protection is crucial, the best approach should be based on public health strategies that can enhance the prevention of child sexual abuse (CSA) through the provision of healthcare for MAP. Objective This scoping review aims to map the barriers to help-seeking in this population, to inform policies that aim to improve access to healthcare. Methods Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, seven databases were searched without date restrictions. This resulted in 780 identified studies; after screening, a total of 7 met the inclusion criteria and were therefore integrated into the review. The data was charted and analyzed thematically. Results The studies included exhibited methodological limitations that were considered within the body of text of this review. Four main barriers were identified: (1) structural, including a lack of available resources and fear of mandatory reporting; (2) financial constraints; (3) social, such as stigma associated with harmful media portrayals; and (4) individual factors like feelings of shame Conclusions This review emphasizes, on the one hand, the need to tackle the systemic barriers that is felt by MAP towards the healthcare services available facilitators. The findings also indicate an urgent requirement for layered interventions that involve policy changes, accessible services, and campaigns to reduce stigma. Regarding future research, there should be a focus on longitudinal and gender-inclusive studies. Disclosure No