Pornography has become an important tool for sexual assault and other digital sex crimes. It provides a script for impersonators and sexual violence. Researchers such as Foubert, J.D., Bridges, A.J., and Banyard, V.L., have explored the impact of pornography on victims and survivors of sexual assault.
Hostile masculinity predicts sexual aggression
The research on pornography and sexual aggression in men and women has been mixed. Some people find porn to be highly sensual while others are turned off by violent scenes. However, studies have found that most men and women prefer pornography that is consensual and pleasurable for both performers. However, some studies have shown that watching pornography can lead to harmful outcomes, such as increased support for sexual coercion. This has caused some feminist activists to worry that pornography is a major cause of gender inequality and the dehumanization of women.
In some studies, male porn viewers have higher rates of hostile masculinity. Hostile masculinity is associated with aggressive sexual beliefs, such as those that support violence and coercion. It has also been associated with pedophilic behavior, which is defined as the practice of receiving sexual pleasure through physical pain and suffering.
Pornography provides a script for sexual violence
The relationship between pornography and sexual violence is complex. While pornography can serve as a form of self-expression, it has also been linked to re-consumption and sexual exploitation. For survivors, pornography may serve as a script for reliving the trauma and re-engaging in harmful relationships. The same dynamics can repeat themselves, resulting in a cycle of trauma that may never end.
The relationship between pornography and sexual violence has been well researched. The strongest associations have been found between deviant pornography genres and sexual coercion. However, few studies have looked at the underlying mechanism, as this relationship remains unclear. However, a theory called the sexual script has shown promise in explaining the connection between pornography use and sexual coercion. The theory proposes that pornography may provide a script for sexual violence by defining what is desirable and acceptable for sexual behavior.
Impact of digital sex crimes on survivors
The impact of digital sexual assault porn on survivors of sex assault is real and severe. In some cases, victims have attempted suicide, while others have been forced to monitor the internet for images of themselves. Digital sex crimes can occur anywhere, from workplaces to schools to intimate relationships. In one case, a woman committed suicide after she learned she had been secretly filmed in a work changing room.
While the majority of digital sex abuse cases are unreported, the prevalence of digital sexual assault porn is growing rapidly. Many victim-survivors are forced to carry out investigations alone, or with the help of trusted friends. These investigations can be traumatic – especially when the victim sees the abuse over again. More resources are needed to increase victim safety and security.
Need for more research
Some researchers believe that the use of pornography has an impact on the victims of rape. According to Professor Roger Ingham of the University of Southampton, pornography can increase the number of victims of rape because of its publicity. This increased awareness of sexual offences could lead to more people reporting rape cases. However, the impact of porn on young people is hard to determine. Parents and governments often struggle to control pornographic content.
Previous studies have shown that pornography is associated with sexual violence. According to Kohut and colleagues, pornography use is associated with a confluence of factors that may trigger a chain reaction of sexual aggression. These factors include impersonal sexuality and hostile masculinity, two traits that often mask an underlying insecurity.