Flashing, Cyberflashing Alter Women's Behaviors

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According to a new study co-led by researchers at Durham Law School, women are experiencing alarmingly high levels of flashing and cyberflashing, with nearly half of young women reporting they have been victims of cyberflashing. As a result, many women are restricting their online activities and changing their behaviors in public, such as avoiding walking or exercising in certain places or not going out alone because they feel unsafe.

Why it matters

This research highlights the significant impact that sexual exposure, both in-person and online, is having on women's lives and behaviors. The findings will be used to inform new training and guidance for police forces in England and Wales to better address these issues.

The details

The study, which surveyed over 4,000 women and men, found that 30% of women have been victims of sexual exposure in their lifetime, compared to 9% of men. For cyberflashing, the numbers are 23% of women and 8% of men. Nearly half (45%) of women aged 18-24 reported experiencing cyberflashing. As a result, 26% of women restrict their online activity, 27% avoid certain routes when walking or exercising, and 23% avoid going out alone, compared to just 3% of men.

• The research was commissioned by the College of Policing and is being used to inform new training and guidance for police forces in England and Wales. To date, over 60,000 officers have undertaken the new training.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The research findings will be used to inform new training and guidance for police forces in England and Wales to better address the issues of flashing and cyberflashing.