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Abstract: 

The “DM Slide” is slang for sending a direct message online with romantic or sexual intent. Technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) has become more prevalent due to the proliferation of online outlets facilitating romantic and other social connections. TFSV refers to hostile actions that occur online or as a result of online communication; it includes behaviors like the posting of sexually explicit images without the subject’s consent, online stalking, and various forms of sexual harassment. College students are especially prone to being victimized by TFSV, with one study revealing that 25 percent of females and 11 percent of males reported these types of experiences. Adding to the harm is the fact that many college-aged victims fail to reveal that they have been victimized in this manner. This article explains why victims are reluctant to report TFSV and offers suggestions for facilitating such reporting.

Keywords: Technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV); Online Stalking; Revenge Porn

Affiliations:  1: American University; 2: American University; 3: ICF.