Nuance and Context in Intimate Image Abuse
摘要
This chapter expands on the victim-centred focus of prior analysis by challenging oversimplified narratives around Intimate Image Abuse (IIA) and exploring its deeply contextual, multifaceted nature. Drawing on extensive data from the UK’s Revenge Porn Helpline, it highlights the diversity of victims and perpetrators, as well as the varying forms and impacts of abuse, including sextortion, voyeurism, synthetic sexual content, and honour-based threats. The chapter critically examines how gender, age, culture, and technology intersect to shape victim experiences and reveals stark disparities in harm: women are disproportionately affected by the sharing of images, while men are more commonly targeted by sextortion. Legal definitions of “intimacy” are shown to be culturally limited, failing to account for contexts where non-sexual images can trigger social ostracism or violence. The chapter also evaluates global and national legislative responses, acknowledging progress but emphasizing the urgent need for consistency, international cooperation, and systemic reform across the justice system. Ultimately, it argues for a nuanced, culturally aware, and survivor-informed approach to effectively support all victims of IIA.