Understanding Online Threats to Mental Health in Rural Communities: Sex and Violence
Tracks
Grand Ballroom 2
| Wednesday, November 5, 2025 |
| 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM |
Overview
Dr Georgina O'Donnell, Private Practice
Presenter
Dr Georgina O’Donnell
Forensic & Clinical Psychologist
Private Practice
Understanding online threats to mental health in rural communities: Sex and Violence
Presentation Overview
Understanding online threats to mental health in rural communities: Sex and Violence
This workshop will inform participants of current developments in understanding online threats to the mental health of rural communities.
Topics will include:
* Problematic use of online pornography
* Pedophilia and child exploitation online
* Incel violence and social isolation
* Violent ideation and online radicalisation
* Lone actor violence
* Understanding the technology: Apps, Messaging services and Artificial Intelligence
* Understanding the co-morbidity of online behavioural problems, including addictions, neurodiversity and trauma
Practical resources will be recommended to assist with providing psycho-education and intervention in rural communities.
The format of the workshop will allow discussion between the presenter and participants, and consideration of case studies.
This workshop will inform participants of current developments in understanding online threats to the mental health of rural communities.
Topics will include:
* Problematic use of online pornography
* Pedophilia and child exploitation online
* Incel violence and social isolation
* Violent ideation and online radicalisation
* Lone actor violence
* Understanding the technology: Apps, Messaging services and Artificial Intelligence
* Understanding the co-morbidity of online behavioural problems, including addictions, neurodiversity and trauma
Practical resources will be recommended to assist with providing psycho-education and intervention in rural communities.
The format of the workshop will allow discussion between the presenter and participants, and consideration of case studies.
Biography
Dr Georgina O'Donnell is a Forensic and Clinical Psychologist based in Hobart. She specialises in providing independent assessments for criminal law, child safety, victims of crime, and community protection cases. She provides expert witness testimony in areas including sexual violence, family violence, child exploitation, counter-terrorism, and online offending behaviour. Dr O'Donnell has been providing psychological services to rural and remote communities in Tasmania and interstate since 1997.
