Our research drives child safety solutions
At Thorn, we conduct novel research to:
Inform the programs we build to
empower kids & communities.
Monitor emerging trends
& technologies.
Equip everyone who has a
stake in protecting children.
Featured Reports
June, 2026
Advancing Response to Sadistic Online Exploitation in Networked Youth Environments
This research examines how sadistic online exploitation (SOE) challenges child safety systems and identifies opportunities to strengthen the coordination of response to better protect young people. The study draws on interviews with more than 30 practitioners across 8 countries.
April, 2025
Commodified Sexual Interactions Involving Minors: New data on evolving dynamics in technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation
Drawing on a survey of 1,200 young people aged 13-20, this research explores the prevalence and nature of commodified sexual interactions involving minors, examining how technology has transformed traditional dynamics of commercial sexual exploitation to include diverse forms of compensation beyond monetary exchange.
Youth-centered research
Our research, collected in the field, provides insights into how youth are experiencing issues like sending nudes and sexting, as well as what motivates their online behaviors. We share our findings with the child safety ecosystem to inform prevention and interventions, and develop resources for parents.
Research topics
Dive into the data and see the latest insights on key topics impacting the child safety ecosystem today. We regularly update these pages with new findings and add additional topics as we conduct more novel research.
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