Image-Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA) in Canada: Comparing Mental Health Outcomes of IBSA Victimization across Diverse Populations

• In Event: Online Safety: From Research to Practice

Abstract

Image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) has emerged as a novel type of technology-facilitated crime, growing rapidly around the world. Drawing upon data from a nationally representative survey of about 1,000 Canadians, the current study investigates the mental health outcomes of those who have experienced IBSA, compared to those who have not. The research focuses on understanding how the mental health impacts of IBSA victimization vary across demographic factors such as age, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic characteristics, including immigrant status and cultural backgrounds. Preliminary findings suggest significant disparities in mental health outcomes, with marginalized groups experiencing heightened vulnerability. This study aims to inform targeted interventions and policy responses to address the unique needs of diverse IBSA survivors, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the intersection between technology-facilitated abuse and mental health.

Authors

• Kai Lin, University of Technology Sydney

• Jia Xue, University of Toronto