“Maybe They Don’t Necessarily Realize the Damage They Can Do…”: A Qualitative Study on Bystanders to Non-consensual Forwarding of Nudes Among Adolescents in Switzerland

Abstract

Peers can positively or negatively influence situations where nudes are forwarded without the original sender’s consent. This study aims to explore opinions and representations of adolescents regarding bystanders’ reactions to nudes being forwarded without consent. Discussions through focus groups (FG) were facilitated with vignettes using quotes related to bystanders. While discussions revolved around the quotes, acting as scenarios, most participants referred to personal experiences as most knew such situations in their social circles. Between May and June 2021, 42 adolescents (23 females) aged between 14 and 17 years participated in eight online FG. A thematic content analysis was performed. Participants reported different levels of bystanders’ responsibility depending on whether one does nothing, reacts by laughing or insulting, or continues to share, this last action being, for most, the most serious one. Several active behaviors were mentioned: shunning the victim, gossiping, laughing, mocking, insulting, and prolonging the sharing. Peer pressure, fear of retaliation, emotional management, friendships, age, and gender were explanations for the different bystanders’ behaviors. There is a lack of awareness of peers’ responsibility regarding nudes being forwarded without consent. It is essential to include bystanders in prevention strategies to make them aware of their influential role within the social dynamic. Demonstrating the weight that the group, collectively, can have in such situations could encourage bystanders to play a proactive role, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment. Deconstructing gender stereotypes from an early age is crucial to reduce violence related to power imbalances, discrimination, or expectations associated with gender roles.