Download the ATSA Policy Agenda

Despite significant research advances that have improved our understanding of sexually harmful behaviors and effective interventions, harmful myths persist and policy responses frequently reflect emotion and assumptions rather than evidence. 

At ATSA we align practice and policy with the body of research knowledge that shapes our understanding of sexual harm prevention. Our aim is to maximize our ability to prevent sexual harm while ensuring effective intervention for those who have caused harm. 

ATSA’s policy agenda presents our evidence-informed priorities across four critical areas

1. Technology-Facilitated Exploitation

ATSA advocates for specialized evidence-based approaches to technology-facilitated sexual harm that recognize these cases have different risk profiles, treatment needs, and intervention opportunities.

2. Individualized Assessment & Treatment Programs

ATSA supports approaches that start with understanding each person’s risks, needs, and strengths, and then match treatment to those factors. Effective programs use evidence informed methods but allow flexibility so providers can adapt interventions to the individual.

3. Strengthening Prevention Through Education

ATSA promotes comprehensive primary prevention education that provides age-appropriate information about consent, healthy relationships, technology, and body safety to prevent sexual harm.

4. Research and Knowledge Translation

ATSA supports research for sexual harm prevention and intervention studies coupled with systematic efforts to translate research findings into accessible formats for practitioners, policymakers, and the public.