Disclosure Decisions and Help-Seeking Experiences Amongst Victim-Survivors of Non-Consensual Intimate Image Distribution

The non-consensual dissemination of intimate images (NCII) is a form of technology-facilitated, image-based sexual abuse. Despite causing significant harm, research indicates a reluctance to seek support. Thus, this study aimed to develop practitioner recommendations for improving support accessibility by exploring NCII victim-survivors' disclosure decisions and experiences of accessing support. Thematic Analysis of 31 UK adult victim-survivor interviews revealed informal support was favored, although some did not disclose to anyone. Disclosure responses ranged from supportive to judgmental. Barriers to help-seeking included stigma and perceiving formal support services as inaccessible. Recommendations for improving formal support accessibility such as service visibility, education and inclusive practices are discussed.