Technology-mediated sexual interaction (TMSI) is the interpersonal exchange
of self-created, sexual material via digital technology (e.g., sexting,
cybersex). Most TMSI research assumes experiences are desired and
consensual. However, it's likely some people consent to TMSIs they do not
desire (i.e., *compliance*), or experience *non-consensual* TMSI (e.g.,
receiving unsolicited sexual pictures). Offline, findings suggest
differences across gender and partner context in compliant and
non-consensual sexual interactions. We explored gender differences in
compliant and non-consensual TMSI activities across three partner contexts:
primary partners (PPs), known non-partners (KNPs), and strangers.
Participants were 333 women and 125 men who were predominantly attracted to
the opposite sex. They completed an online survey including questions about
their experiences with compliant and non-consensual TMSI in the three
partner contexts.
Chi-square analyses indicated similar numbers of women and men reported
compliant TMSI with PPs. Significantly more men (20.5%) than women (11.8%)
received non-consensual TMSI content from PPs. Significantly more women
(24.8–35.3%) than men (15.2–19.9%) received non-consensual TMSI content
from KNPs and strangers. In PP contexts, about the same number of women and
men received non-consensual TMSI messages as men and women sent. However,
there were significant inconsistencies between sending and receiving
non-consensual TMSI content with KNPs and strangers – few participants
reported sending such content.
These findings suggest partner context is an important component of
compliant and non-consensual TMSI activities for women and men, and that
people may not correctly interpret others’ desire/consent to receive TMSI
content. We will discuss implications for research, education, and
relationships.