Navigating Digital Sexual Violence and Harassment (DSVH) in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Scope, Impact, and Coping Strategies

Abstract

DIgital   Sexual   Violence   and   Harassment   (DSVH)   is   a   pervasive   global  issue, particularly  impacting  Low-and  Middle-Income  Countries  (LMICs)  due  to  the rapid  expansion  of  technology.  This  study  presents  a  comprehensive  analysis  of DSVH,  focusing  on  its  prevalence,  impact  on  victims,  and  coping  mechanisms  in  LMICs. The  literature  review  highlights  the  wide  range  of  definitions  and  categories  of  DSVH, including  online  sexual  harassment,  image-based  abuse,  coercion,  and  monitoring  using digital  technology.  Perpetrators  utilize  various  platforms  such  as  social  media,  messaging apps,  and  websites  to  carry  out  DSVH,  with  motivations  ranging  from  financial  gain  to maintaining  patriarchal  power  structures.  Results  from  the  study  reveal  the  diverse  impacts of  DSVH  on  victim-survivors,  including  psychological  trauma,  social  isolation,  reputational harm,   financial   repercussions,   and   physical   injuries.   Victim-survivors   employ   coping mechanisms such as self-censorship, seeking support from family and friends, and engaging indirect  actions  like  blocking  perpetrators.  The  study  underscores  the  urgent  need  for effective  interventions  and  policies  to  address  DSVH  in  LMICs,  ensuring  the  safety  and well-being of individuals vulnerable to digital sexual violence and harassment.