The digital world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, transforming the way people communicate, work, and build relationships. Social media, instant messaging, and dating apps have created endless opportunities for connection, breaking down geographical barriers and making interactions more seamless than ever. However, this rapid digital expansion has also given rise to darker behaviors, one of the most pervasive being the unsolicited sending of explicit images.
While technology has made communication more accessible, it has also blurred boundaries, enabling a form of online harassment that leaves victims feeling violated, distressed, and powerless.
Jane Wanjiku was in the middle of a school presentation when an unsolicited explicit image popped up on her phone screen. The image had been sent by an unknown person who had been harassing her for weeks. Despite reporting the incidents, her WhatsApp account was eventually spammed, forcing her to change her number.
“I was disgusted and devastated because no matter what I did, this guy kept sending me his nudes using new numbers,” she says.
Mary, another victim, had been exchanging lighthearted messages and memes with a male friend when, without warning, he sent her an explicit image. “I was disturbed and disgusted because I didn’t ask for this,” she recalls. When she confronted him, his response was chilling in its nonchalance: “I just felt like it.”
These stories reflect a disturbing trend in digital interactions. Sending of unsolicited explicit images is a form of online gender-based violence (OGBV). With increased and unregulated nature of the internet, experts notes that most perpetrators don’t understand the harm that such images causes to individuals.
Psychologist Sharon Nyawira explains that sending unsolicited explicit images is often linked to personality disorders, including narcissism and antisocial behavior. “People with these disorders lack concern for others’ boundaries and often disregard the emotional impact of their actions,” she notes. She also highlights peer pressure as a contributing factor.
“Often, people justify this behavior by saying, ‘It’s a trend,’ or ‘It’s part of my generation.’ But they ignore the magnitude of harm it causes.”
Nyawira also points to cultural and media influences. “The normalization of explicit sexual behavior in movies and social media creates an environment where people perceive such actions as acceptable,” she says.
Another major factor is the desire for social validation. “For those with low self-esteem, sending explicit images becomes a way to seek approval. They want to feel attractive and desirable because they struggle with self-worth,” Nyawira explains.
Psychologist Krapf Mutinda agrees but takes a deeper look at the darker aspects of human psychology. He said the behaviour is rooted in personal traits of perpetrators, sdding that digital anonimity also fuel such behaviours.
“Studies have linked this behavior to the ‘Dark Tetrad’ of personality traits, a narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism.Some individuals send these images as a form of power play, seeking control over their victims,” he says. He also highlights the role of exhibitionism, a psychological paraphilia where individuals derive pleasure from exposing themselves. “The anonymity of digital communication has emboldened these behaviors, reducing the perceived risk of consequences.”
For victims like Jane and Mary, the emotional toll is profound. “The immediate reaction is often shock and disbelief, followed by feelings of guilt and shame,” says Nyawira. “Many victims start questioning whether they did something to provoke the sender.”
The long-term psychological effects can be even more damaging. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and trust issues, particularly in online interactions. “Some individuals develop a fear of engaging in digital spaces, and others struggle with self-esteem issues,” Mutinda adds. “There’s also a risk of PTSD {post-traumatic stress disorder} especially if the harassment persists over time.”
The rise of social media and instant messaging apps has made it easier for perpetrators to send explicit images without immediate repercussions. “Digital platforms have blurred social boundaries,” Nyawira states. “Anonymity allows people with antisocial traits to thrive, preying on unsuspecting victims.”
Mutinda adds that the design of many social media platforms contributes to the problem. “Most apps don’t have strong firewalls to restrict who can message you privately. This lack of barriers means anyone can invade your digital space and send unsolicited content.”
Both psychologists agree that a multifaceted approach is needed to curb the spread of cyberflashing.
“People need to be taught that sending unsolicited explicit images is a violation of consent,” says Nyawira. “There should be more conversations about digital boundaries and respect.”
Mutinda emphasizes the need for empathy training. “Helping people understand the emotional and psychological harm these images cause can deter potential perpetrators. There must be stricter laws and enforcement against online sexual harassment,” Nyawira argues.
Some countries have already criminalized cyberflashing, but enforcement remains a challenge. Providing support systems for victims is equally crucial.
While stressing the importance of digital literacy to help individual to navigate online space safely, Mutinda says victims should also have access to counseling and legal recourse.
For perpetrators, therapeutic interventions can play a key role in behavior correction. “Some offenders may have underlying psychological issues that need to be addressed. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help individuals understand and control their impulses.”
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