An Examination of Sexting and Nonconsensual Pornography Involvement Through Perception Analysis

• In Event: Examining Cybercrime Offending and Policy Responses

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore people’s willingness to participate in both sexting and other nonconsensual pornography-related behaviors. A sample of 63 participants recruited from various online platforms completed surveys administered online. Respondents were asked about their willingness to participate in both sexting and nonconsensual pornography involving their peers and romantic partners. The study found that a majority of respondents were unwilling to engage in sexting with peers, while just over half were open to sexting with their romantic partner. Twenty-two percent of respondents indicated that they would be open to nonconsensually distributing intimate images involving their romantic partner, whereas only 3% indicated a willingness to engage in the same behavior toward their peers. Participants indicated a preference towards flashing intimate images on one’s own device ahead of posting on social media and/or sending the image file(s) directly, as the method most favorable in instances of nonconsensual pornography. This study provides support for the finding that most sexting occurs between individuals involved in a relationship rather than between strangers. Moreover, nonconsensual pornography is most likely to involve a romantic partner than a peer. Future directions of this research are discussed.

Authors

• Steven Downing, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

• Jin Ree Lee, Michigan State University