The interplay of online sexual harassment victimization, personality factors, and experiences of loneliness

Manuscript
Published: Dec 12, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/psy_hps.37928
Keywords:
Online sexual harassment Dark triad Hostility Loneliness
Vanessa Barros
University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4400-9368
Ana Paula Monteiro
University of Porto; University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD)
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4082-1474
Ângela Leite
Universidade Católica Portuguesa
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0560-1756
Abstract

In contemporary society, the internet plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity among individuals. However, alongside its numerous advantages, the virtual realm presents challenges such as online sexual harassment, a prevalent issue characterized by offensive sexual messages. This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between online sexual harassment, personality traits, hostility, and loneliness. Conducted as descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional, and quantitative research, the study involved 472 participants of Portuguese nationality. The key findings underscore the significant prevalence of online sexual harassment victimization within this sample, highlighting dark personality traits, hostility, and loneliness as interconnected factors. Consequently, this study provides valuable insights into the existing literature by shedding light on the specific dynamics among the investigated variables.

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