Disclosure Decisions and Help-Seeking Experiences Amongst Victim-Survivors of Non-Consensual Intimate Image Distribution

The non-consensual dissemination of intimate images (NCII) is a form of technology-facilitated, image-based sexual abuse. Despite causing significant harm, research indicates a reluctance to seek support. Thus, this study aimed to develop practitioner recommendations for improving support accessibil...

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Bibliographic Details
Authors: Mclocklin, Georgina (Author) ; Kellezi, Blerina (Author) ; Stevenson, Clifford (Author) ; McKay, Jennifer (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 2025
In: Victims & offenders
Year: 2025, Volume: 20, Issue: 7, Pages: 1258-1284
Online Access: Volltext (kostenfrei)
Check availability: HBZ Gateway
Keywords:
disclosure decisions
facilitators
Barriers
non-consensual dissemination of intimate images
help-seeking behaviors
Revenge Porn
Image-based sexual abuse
Description
Summary:The non-consensual dissemination of intimate images (NCII) is a form of technology-facilitated, image-based sexual abuse. Despite causing significant harm, research indicates a reluctance to seek support. Thus, this study aimed to develop practitioner recommendations for improving support accessibility by exploring NCII victim-survivors’ disclosure decisions and experiences of accessing support. Thematic Analysis of 31 UK adult victim-survivor interviews revealed informal support was favored, although some did not disclose to anyone. Disclosure responses ranged from supportive to judgmental. Barriers to help-seeking included stigma and perceiving formal support services as inaccessible. Recommendations for improving formal support accessibility such as service visibility, education and inclusive practices are discussed.
ISSN:1556-4991
DOI:10.1080/15564886.2024.2329107