| Abstract [eng] |
This master’s thesis examines a new, yet pervasive form of sexual abuse specific to online spaces in Lithuania, that challenges the idea and comprehension of consent, and reasons for displaying lack of self-regulation. Aim of the research – to assess the connection between image-based sexual abuse, understanding of consent, and reasons for toxic behaviour in the context of Lithuania. Relevance of the research – image-based sexual abuse has become a rapidly growing digital phenomenon with primary purpose to inflict emotional distress, humiliation, or harm to the victim, especially marginalized groups in Lithuanian society. Therefore, it must be viewed not only as an example of digital abuse, but also as an expression of heteropatriarchal society and culture. Non-consensual image sharing is gaining attention on academic level, yet rarely is connected to the issue of no redefinition of sexual consent, and online disinhibition effect as a motivation. Furthermore, there are no research made on this subject in the context of Lithuania, therefore it is necessary to analyse and evaluate the situation. Research problem – research on interplay between image-based sexual abuse, consent and online disinhibition effect is necessary, but is it enough to make changes? Research methods – analysis of literature review, which later is explained by quantitative research analysis. Theoretical framework for the research – this paper takes an extensive look at revenge pornography, consent, online disinhibition effect and feminist theories on sexual pleasure and gender as an idea, by combining theoretical frameworks, which include the works of researchers such as McGlynn, C., Franks, M. A., Suler, J., Reicher, S. D., Krien, A., De Beauvoir, S., Butler, J., Citron, D. K., Mulvey, L. and Hasinoff, A. A. and others. The structure of the research – research is divided into five chapters: Definitions, History, Forms and Laws in Lithuania Regarding Image-Based Sexual Abuse; Feminist Theoretical Framework in Understanding Gender, Pleasure and Sexual Violence Against Marginalized Groups; Understanding Consent, Online Disinhibition Effect and its Relation to Image-Based Sexual Abuse; Empirical Research and Analysis Regarding Image-Based Sexual Abuse, the Understanding of Consent and Behaviour Online in the Context of Lithuania. Objectives of the research – 1) To provide definitions of image-based sexual abuse and its forms, accurately portraying representation of this phenomenon; 2) To analyse the background and legal awareness of image-based sexual abuse in Lithuania. 3) To evaluate if the definition of sexual consent is applicable in online interactions. 4) To delve into the motivation behind image-based sexual abuse, especially online disinhibition effect, its history and influence on impulsive and aggressive behaviour online. 5) To explore how gendered dynamics within online interactions influence the negotiation and violation of consent. Conclusions – Theory analysis revealed the various definitions of image-based sexual abuse, yet commonly used phrases such as revenge pornography and non-consensual pornography, lean towards victim-blaming rather than keeping the perpetrators accountable. Lack of specific laws in Lithuania also add to the issue, as pornography creation and distribution is still illegal in Lithuania (Article 309). There is still lack of sexual education and awareness in terms of image-based sexual abuse, yet survey results showed that 64 out of 72 respondents do not think that education alone is sufficient to deal with it. Additionally, 77,8% of respondents agree that this phenomenon should be considered as a crime. However, 41 out of 72 respondents do not know any laws and regulations that could be applied to fight it. Almost all respondents (93.1%) believe that the sense of anonymity online leads to reduced inhibition, with 50% attributing this to an increased likelihood of engaging in sexually abusive behaviour. A paradox in 2 of respondent’s answers emerged, in terms of violence, with one expressing the belief that not all people generally understand that abuse is not just physical, while another holds the perspective that abuse is solely physical. 17 respondents argue that misogyny is the main reason for gendered violence which could be explained by the notion that throughout history women were (and still are) expected to exist for men’s pleasure. Additionally, one respondents answer represents the duality of fighting traditional ideologies, yet subconsciously still being a part of it. |
