Sexual violence and abuse in online dating: A scoping review. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Filice, Eric; Abeywickrama, Kavishka D.; Parry, Diana C.; Johnson, Corey W.
• Is Part Of: Aggression and violent behavior. Volume 67(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Technology -- Online dating -- Dating apps -- Hookup apps -- Internet communication -- Sexual violence -- Online sexual harassment -- Revenge pornography -- Online victimization; Aggressiveness -- Periodicals; Violence -- Periodicals; Violent offenders -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 302.54
• DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2022.101781
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1789

Abstract

Abstract: Online dating websites and apps offer an array of conveniences that have captivated those looking to form new relationships. However, as these platforms have grown in popularity, companies have had to grapple with their potential to act as catalysts for sexual violence and abuse both on and offline. In light of increasing anecdotal, popular media, and law enforcement reports, there is growing academic interest in online dating as a specific avenue of technology-facilitated sexual violence, with its own potential contextual drivers and safeguards. Using a scoping review methodology, the authors map this emerging literature's contours, characterize its theoretical, methodological, and empirical contents, and identify lacunae and opportunities for future research. Areas addressed in the current literature include the prevalence of digital sexual harassment and abuse, individual differences in victimization and perpetration, mechanisms by which online dating technologies facilitate or impede sexual violence, and responses from industry, policymakers, and the general public. Among other gaps, there is need for additional longitudinal and experimental research, qualitative analyses of online dating technologies' digital architectures, and investigation into the psychological and social sequelae of online dating violence. Highlights: This scoping review maps the current literature on sexual violence in online dating. Literature contains a manifold of qualitative and quantitative study designs. Research addresses digital sexual violence prevalence, predictors, prevention. Four causal mechanisms: risky lifestyle, disinhibition, social embedding, technoculture Need for additional longitudinal research, research on digital architectures, and more