CMN 368 Sex and Technology
What is cybersex & how many internet users have engaged in cybersex?
- Enacting sexual acts with partners through computer mediated communication - Between 33%-60% of internet users have had cybersex
Compulsive user
> Has shown some problematic traits, like playing video games excessively, has had problems with drugs or alcohol > Sexually compulsive traits, negative consequences as a result
Recreational user
> Might be looking up content to receive some type of gratification , uses the web occasionally, few negative consequences. > Will not have any difficulty maintaining their job performance, grades. > Can also maintain friendships/relationships
Consequences of cybersex
> Relationship dissolution > Loss of trust with relational partner > Addiction
Characteristics of signaling theory
> Rooted in Biology and Darwin's sexual selection > We signal to potential mates that we are the best option > In online dating, both males and females are competing and signaling > Identities are adjustable online
Key ideas about digital deception
> Stems from false manipulation of an individual identity > Deliberate > Designed to mislead
Characteristics of hyperpersonal model
> We disclose more > Disclose quicker > Reciprocity > Reduced cues
3 characteristics for a Triple-A engine
Accessibility Affordability Anonymity
Factors that make online dating attractive
Anonymity- you can provide as little or as much information as you'd like to about yourself. You can decide how you want to portray yourself Asynchronous- You both don't have to be online at the same time. You can respond at your convenience Self presentation- Most people can be whoever they want to be. Presented in most positive light and attractive light Editability- You can edit or change information at any time
At-risk user
No sexually compulsive traits before internet
Isolated cybersex
Sexual activities performed by an individual through technological means that do not include other users
Social cybersex
Sexual activities performed by an individual through technological means that involves interaction with other users that could be sexual
Mate selection
Intersexual: Female choice Intrasexual: Males compete for females
Catfish
Someone who pretends to be someone they're not using social media to create false identities, particularly to pursue deceptive online romances
Sexting via text message
Most common in committed, casual sex, and cheating relationships
How many teens and young adults are sexting?
20% of teens (13-19 y/o) 31% of young adults
Motives for sexting
Flirtation Casual sex partners Partner asked me to Shy to say/do face-to-face Wanted to initiate sex Wanted covert communication Boredom Long distance
Who is dating online?
> 11% of total adult population is engaged in online dating- more common to meet a partner through online dating sites > 38% of single and looking adults look to online dating services > Ages 25-44 are most prevalent users (college students use Tinder) > Urban and suburban residents are more likely to use online dating services than rural residents > Adults with college education are TWICE as likely to be online daters than those without a college education
Reasons why people have cybersex
> Another way to experience psychological or physical pleasure > Alternative to satisfying a sexual desire when one does not have a partner > Potential way to develop a relationship or find an offline sexual partner
Digital deception
The intentional control of information in a technologically mediated message to create a false belief in the receiver of the message
