Emotional Responses to Image-Based Sexual Harassment: Examining Help-Seeking and Changes in Social Media Behavior

Image-based sexual harassment (IBSH), a form of technology-facilitated sexual violence, remains a growing concern for young women online. This study examined emotional responses, help-seeking, and social media behaviors among 400 undergraduate women (ages 18-22 years) who experienced IBSH, including cyberflashing, pressured sexting, image-related gaslighting about sharing intimate images, and repeated image-related cyberstalking or harassment. The most common emotions reported were disgust, shock, and feeling overwhelmed. Emotions such as embarrassment, anger, sadness, and anxiety were associated with actions such as blocking perpetrators, adjusting privacy settings, or reducing social media use, whereas humor was linked to reduced disengagement. Although 67% of the participants disclosed their experiences, only 14% sought formal help. Embarrassment, anger, and fear were positively correlated with help-seeking, while indifference was associated with less help-seeking. Findings underscore the emotional complexity of IBSH and its potential influence on coping, disclosure, and digital safety behaviors. The study offers implications for trauma-informed interventions, digital literacy education, and social media policy reforms that promote women's well-being and agency in online environments.