Sexual Harassment on Social Networking Sites: Exploring Adolescent Views

• In Event: Online Harassment and Victimization

Abstract

Sexual harassment is increasingly being encountered by adolescents on social networking sites (SNS) and is associated with a variety of negative psychological consequences. To develop effective interventions, adolescent views were explored in 16 focus groups and 4 individual in-depth interviews with adolescents aged 12 -18y (N=83).
Situational factors contributing to a high perceived severity suggest priorities for interventions such as gender harassment, situations with restricted escape and the non-consensual use of pictures for sexual purposes. According to adolescents, encountering sexual harassment on SNS is one’s own responsibility, however also the harasser and SNS providers contribute to a setting in which sexual harassment is tolerated. Findings suggest that SNS providers can play a role in decreasing the impact of sexual harassment for adolescents by providing a safer environment and increasing the control for the user. The promotion of positive behavioral norms on SNS and appropriate responses towards harassers demand more attention.

Authors

• Kathleen Van Royen, University of Antwerp

• Karolien Poels, U of Antwerp

• Heidi Vandebosch, U of Antwerp - Department of Communication Studies