Study: Sexual attacks in social networks alert women

Study: Sexual attacks in social networks alert women

In today's digital world, women are increasingly confronted with a worrying reality: sexual assault on the Internet. A current pilot study by the Delta Institute for Social and Ecologist Research in Penzberg shows that more than two thirds of the women surveyed have had such experiences. Young girls and women in particular are often the target of harassment that have their roots in apparently harmless online communications.

The importance of sensitive information in schools

Lena Weilbacher from the Weissen Ring in Mainz explains that numerous attacks begin with an initial, innocent conversation. These chats can develop over weeks and, in the worst case, lead to a request for nude photos or even a Dickpic. Many young people feel the exchange of such pictures as normal, which provides questionable insights into the perception of sex and privacy. Vera Arnold from the Women's Call in Frankfurt notices that the insensitivity is alarming among young people and that it lacks information.

The psychology behind the online behavior

Despite inappropriate behavior, many young women play down their feelings and wonder whether their reaction is exaggerated. This need not to show yourself cannot lead to help looking too late, for example if serious threats or staled behavior occur. Arnold says: "I wish that women dare to more and come to us earlier", which shows how important the feeling of security and trust in help offers is.

Protection measures and legal steps

Women who are in such situations should definitely listen to their gut feeling and immediately stop contact or block the perpetrator. Extensive measures, such as reporting to the operator of the platform, must also be considered. "The Internet never forgets," warns Weilbacher and advises those affected not to extinguish their chats in order to secure potential evidence if legal steps are necessary.

Generation of support and awareness

The collection of these amounts has initiated a new discussion about the need for support offers and sensitization within society. Early intervention can not only result in legal consequences for the perpetrators, but also psychological help for the victims. It is not only the power of the perpetrators who are concerned, but also the fear of women about the consequences of their experiences and the difficulties to enter into new relationships.

Conclusion and Appeal to Society

The topic of sexual attacks on the Internet requires immediate action. Social education, support systems and increased awareness can be integrated into schools and communities. "It is of enormous importance to speak openly about these problems," Arnold appeals. Only through joint action can we create a safer environment for women and reduce the stigma, which is often associated with victims of sexual assault.

- Nag