Technology-facilitated sexual violence exposure among university students and its relationship with perceived social support and traumatic stress

Abstract

Objective: With the growing use of digital communication technologies, new forms of sexual violence have emerged. Technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) is prevalent among young adults and is associated with a range of adverse mental health outcomes and impaired functioning. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the prevalence of TFSV exposure and its predictive relationship with psychological outcomes, including psychological distress and traumatic stress. Additionally, the study investigated whether perceived social support moderates the relationship between TFSV exposure and psychological outcomes. Method: A sample of university students (n=192) was recruited through an online survey, which included a Sociodemographic Information Form, the TFSV-Victimization Scale (TFSV-VS), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. Results: Of the participants, 78.1% reported experiencing at least one subtype of TFSV in their lifetime, and 59.9% reported exposure within the past year. Lifetime TFSV exposure significantly and positively predicted both traumatic stress symptoms and psychological distress. Perceived social support moderated the relationship between lifetime TFSV exposure and traumatic stress. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of university students are affected by TFSV. Exposure to TFSV is associated with psychological distress and traumatic stress symptoms. Perceived social support may serve as a protective factor, mitigating the adverse psychological effects of TFSV among emerging adults.