Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence: What It Is and How To Help (Part 1)

Moderator: Robynne Devine
Facilitators: Suzie Dunn, Cynthia Khoo

Technology is increasingly used by abusers to perpetrate sexualized violence and abuse. However, individuals who work in traditional anti-sexual violence support positions may be unfamiliar with these forms of violence or not know how to support students being victimized in these ways. This workshop offers an introduction to the issue of technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) and abuse. It defines what this term means and describes various forms of it. The presenters cover forms of TFSV that occur in close relationships, such as between intimate partners or friends, and TFSV in broader social groups, such as attacks in digital classrooms or on social media by classmates, acquaintances, or strangers. Following a description of the issue, specific example situations, and discussion about the harms caused by TFSV, the workshop shares various resources related to supporting victim-survivors. This includes TFSV safety-planning considerations, links to organizations with practical information and tip sheets, and other helpful guidelines for people experiencing TFSV and those providing support to them.

Learn more in Part 2: Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence: What Rights Do Students Have? (Part 2)

BCcampus webinar recorded February 23, 2022

Note: If you notice an error in the closed-captions, please email support@bccampus.ca with details of the error, the time stamp, and your suggested correction, if any.