Technology-Facilitated Domestic and Sexual Violence: A Review

Violence Against Women. 2020 Dec;26(15-16):1828-1854. doi: 10.1177/1077801219875821.

Abstract

This article investigates the phenomenon of domestic and sexual violence against adult women using digital communications technologies. The article explores terminological and conceptual challenges and describes the empirical research literature in this field to date in relation to digital dating abuse, intimate partner cyberstalking, technology-facilitated sexual assault, image-based sexual abuse, and online sexual harassment. The article also discusses policy and practice responses to this growing problem, as well as future directions for research. We argue that research and practice need to be guided by existing conceptual frameworks that utilize gender and actor-network theory to understanding the causes and consequences of women's experiences of abuse and violence facilitated by digital technologies.

Keywords: cyberstalking; digital dating abuse; image-based sexual abuse; online sexual harassment; technology-faciliated abuse.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cyberbullying / statistics & numerical data
  • Digital Technology*
  • Domestic Violence / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Intimate Partner Violence / statistics & numerical data
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sex Offenses / statistics & numerical data*
  • Sexual Harassment / statistics & numerical data
  • Stalking / epidemiology
  • Young Adult