Non-consensual intimate image distribution is typical in the modern life of young people all around the world. Most of the time, such actions are performed as an act of anger or revenge. However, even though this is not new, people often do not know how to react to this blackmail. That is the reason why the topic of an article called Young People Just Resolve It in Their Own Group is relevant and needs to be discussed. This paper aims to analyze the article and study the strengths and weaknesses of the work. Young people need respect and no condemnation to feel safe to talk about their problems.
Over the last decade, the problem of non-consensual sexually explicit images has become even more frequent. Often named “revenge porn,” this type of harassment leaves a significant mark on the victims’ reputation, career, and mental and psychological state. Even though such behavior has become criminally convicted recently in many countries, young people continue to have trouble seeking help in such situations. The main reasons for these difficulties are the criminalization of the offender, often the victims’ classmates or other people from the close circle, and the fear of overreaction or being blamed by adults.
The study claims that “they may still avoid seeking help from an adult due to a perceived lack of non-judgemental and helpful supports” (Dodge et al., 2022, p. 313). It is also mentioned that one of the most vital things for supporting young victims without judgment is to respect them as sexual beings that should not be blamed for any sexual acts. The consensual image-sharing taboo forms the truism about sex being a danger. This statement is relevant and should not be disputed.
Teenagers that experienced non-consensual sexually explicit images being published or sent need to feel no pressure and judgment to be able to share their issues with adults. It is declared that sex-positive approaches among adults help teenagers to liberate and become more open about their sexual acts of any kind. This is crucial for young people’s openness at the right moments instead of trying to solve their problems independently.
However, one of the weaknesses of this article’s text is the difference between people and the need for a unique approach. Another suggestion the study offers is educational design in collaboration with young people. This statement is absolute because most of the time, no one knows what is better for youth except for themselves. Many experts declare that “non-criminal alternatives should be made available to allow for expedient, individualized, victim-centered, and restorative responses” (Dodge et al., 2022, p. 315). However, this statement is debatable because every person should be equal before the law and receive deserved treatment. Disobedience to the law and human rights is a severe mistake that needs to be punished for society to stay just.
To conclude, it is crucial for young people to be accepted to be able to trust and be open to adults. Many teenagers were left alone with their sexual issues because they feared rejection and condemnation from adults. Different kinds of support should be provided to help young people to receive assistance. The main aspects that help to open teenagers to dialogue are sexual openness, accepting them as sexual beings, and uncompromising support. Such actions provide favorable conditions for their development as individuals and do not allow them to be emotionally or psychologically hurt by their peers.
References
Dodge, A. & Lockhart, E. (2022). ‘Young people just resolve it in their own group’: Young people’s perspectives on responses to non-consensual intimate image distribution. Youth Justice, 22(3), 304-319. Web.