The performance of sexual violence in virtual spaces: An analysis of websites dedicated to the non-consensual sharing of sexual images

Abstract

Non-consensual distribution of sexual images has become a social problem, where the desire for revenge are acted out through public shaming and humiliation, causing devastating emotional effects for its victims. As the research on this phenomenon has predominantly been concerned with the legal aspect, as well as victims experience, little attention has been given to the websites that publish and share intimate images. Leaving a gap in our understanding of this phenomena. This research project analyses the comments on two websites (Peeping Tom and Upload your Ex!) dedicated to non-consensual publishing of sexual images by using thematic coding, as it allows the researcher to map out prevalent themes and behaviours.
This study shows that there is a clear difference between the purpose of the websites, as Peeping Tom is dedicated to trading and swapping images, where the communication is oriented towards reciprocal sharing of original images. Upload your Ex!, on the other hand, is oriented towards the public humiliation of the victims, through sexually objectifying strategies. This research project ends with a conclusion where the researcher addresses the limitations of this study as well as providing suggestions for further research.