We have heard of cases where manipulative, controlling and jealous lovers go to terrible extremes to get back to their exes. In such extreme cases, we find those who distribute illicit material of their ex-partner naked, or whilst engaged in sexual activity. The purpose for this distribution is to humiliate and negatively impact the reputation of the victim, following a break-up. The term to signify such an act, is referred to by the media as revenge porn.
With technology that can be easily used to snap and record someone with a few taps, revenge porn has been on the rise and is used to ruin lives and keep people under one’s torture and control. When one cannot resort to physical violence, he turns to other equally and more damaging tactics such as revenge porn threats and actual distribution of content which shames the victim. Several cases of revenge porn indicate that there are several ways how such material can be distributed. Two examples include the distribution via chat messages and also by placing such material on third party websites, which may be less responsive when receiving orders and complaints to have this content removed. In this article, we discuss the long-term repercussions of revenge porn.
Reputation
Following the leakage of illicit material on the internet, the victim’s reputation takes a downturn. Be it either within the circle of friends, the opinions of people who barely know him or her, and also within their workplace, you can bet that the online material which was shared will be discussed repeatedly. This puts victims in a position where they are ridiculed and are taken less seriously.
Relationships
Following the trauma of being betrayed in such a manner by your ex-partner, developing meaningful relationships with new people will be a struggle. Not just that, but the victim may also choose to divulge the trauma of being exposed online to the new partner, which may not always be taken well.
Anxiety and depression
Such a scenario is likely to bring with it extended moments of stress, panic and frustration. Dealing with this level of trauma including the police reports and comments received by people will create a sense of anxiety and helplessness. Over the long-term this can develop into an even worse mental health condition where victims may fall into depression.
The distribution and sharing of such material is illegal and punishable by law. The originator of such material would undoubtedly be faced with legal repercussions. With that said, others who receive and continue sharing such content are also undertaking an illegality. Next time you receive something on your phone, be careful before you share something with your friends.
