An Examination of Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence Perpetration in Canada Among a Large Sample of Adults

Abstract

Information on the perpetration of technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) in Canada often relies on small, nonrepresentative samples of university students. The goal of the present study was to provide perpetration rates for the three most common types TFSV among a large panel sample of adults living in Canada while also identifying similarities and differences in the demographic characteristics of people engaging in each type. Information on TFSV perpetration within 12 months prior to the study and demographic characteristics were collected for a sample of 1,200 adults currently living in Canada. In total, approximately one in five participants reported engaging in at least one type of TFSV (19.4%). Cyberstalking was the most common type of TFSV reported (16.1%), followed by online sexual harassment (7.2%), and the nonconsensual dissemination of intimate images (5.1%). While differences were seen in the characteristics of people engaging in each type of TFSV, identifying as a man (vs. woman), being affiliated with religion (vs. not), indicating that religion impacts sexual behaviours (vs. not), and using online dating apps or services (vs. not) were related to an increased likelihood of perpetrating all three types of TFSV behaviours. Providing a clearer understanding of the scope of TFSV and identifying individuals more likely to engage in TFSV are necessary steps in the creation of prevention and intervention programs, with the ultimate goal of reducing these harmful behaviours.