Image-based Sexual Abuse: A Study on the Causes and Consequences of Non-consensual Nude or Sexual Imagery

This book explores the causes and consequences of image-based sexual abuse in a digital era, including revenge porn, upskirting, blackmail, and deepfake porn. It is based on empirical research with over 6,000 respondents and interviews with victim-survivors and stakeholders. The authors argue that image-based sexual abuse is perpetrated by men for power and control, and is part of a broader pattern of gendered harassment, violence, and abuse.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate realm of image-based sexual abuse, shedding light on its causes, consequences, and the urgent need for comprehensive responses in the digital age. Image-based sexual abuse encompasses a wide range of harmful behaviors, including the unauthorized taking or sharing of nude or sexually explicit photographs or videos of another person without their consent. It extends beyond the realm of revenge porn, encompassing secret trading of such images online, upskirting, downblousing, and other forms of creepshots, as well as blackmail or sextortion scams. Moreover, the book explores the use of artificial intelligence to create deepfake pornographic videos, the threat of distributing photographs and videos without consent, and the perpetration of sexual assault imagery.

The prevalence and experiences of these harms are explored in depth, drawing on groundbreaking empirical research involving surveys conducted in three countries with over 6,000 respondents and extensive interviews with victim-survivors and stakeholders. Guided by theoretical frameworks from gender studies, sociology, criminology, law, and psychology, the authors argue that image-based sexual abuse is more commonly perpetrated by men than women, with higher rates observed among younger and sexuality minority men. While the motivations behind perpetration vary, a dominant theme emerges: power and control.

The gendered nature of image-based sexual abuse underscores its significance as a continuum of sexual violence, often experienced by victim-survivors as part of a broader pattern of gendered harassment, violence, and abuse. This book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it an invaluable resource for students and scholars in criminology, sociology, law, and psychology. By shedding light on the complexities of image-based sexual abuse, this book contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals and communities in the digital age. It underscores the urgent need for robust legal and non-legal measures, as well as cultural and societal changes, to combat this pervasive form of harm and ensure the protection and well-being of all individuals.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367524401