Cyber Abuse Victimization: The Barriers of Title IX and Educational Institution Support - CANCELLED

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Technology has grown exponentially over the past decade, mainly due to smartphone and computer access by much of the population. Cyber Sexual Abuse (CSA) has become an increasingly substantial problem among Internet users. The Internet is riddled with sexual harassment, cyberstalking, sexploitation, intimate image abuse, nonconsensual solicitation, deepfakes, and cyberflashing. The purpose of this study was to uncover the experiences of CSA victim-survivors and identify their needs for better support, disclosure, and closure for their mental well-being. Through theories of gender, generations, and social dominance, this study explored the victim-offender relationship, disclosure motives, and power dynamics. Participants identified as young, school-age females, and offenders were identified as classmates and former intimate partners. School support systems were inadequate, significantly impacting participants’ lack of disclosure and establishing barriers to continued education. Recommendations for creating safety in schools for victim-survivors are explored.

Author

• Sarah Bahrenburg, California School of Forensic Studies