Through an online survey, this project examines the prevalence and impacts of image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) in 10 different countries, including the general public’s attitudes towards IBSA. Image-based sexual abuse refers to the non-consensual creating, taking, or sharing of intimate (nude or sexual) images (photos or videos), as well as threats to share intimate images.
Image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) is a widespread global problem that can have devastating impacts on victim-survivors and their communities. Although empirical research is growing in this field, few survey studies have examined prevalence in relation to a range of different behaviours within the one survey, and most of the focus has been on the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. The majority of survey studies have also been conducted in the Global North.
This study aims to contribute knowledge about the prevalence of IBSA victimisation and perpetration. It addresses some gaps in the literature to focus on 10 countries, providing baseline information to help identify geographical differences in victimisation and perpetration rates, identify demographic risk characteristics, and highlight the most common IBSA subtypes.
The research will produce knowledge that will inform laws, policies, educational programs, and other interventions for detecting, preventing and responding to IBSA. The research seeks to contribute to criminal justice policy, education and legislative reform for the prevention of crime. It will lead to the provision of practical recommendations that will benefit victim-survivors and inform organisational and governmental responses to this growing social and legal problem.
Nicola Henry
2023 - 2024
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.