bbc.com
UK: Non-Fatal Strangulation During Sex—The Impact of Pornography
A UK government review found non-fatal strangulation (NFS) pornography widespread online, potentially influencing real-life sexual practices; 700 people were prosecuted for NFS between July 2022 and June 2023; experts warn of serious health risks and the link between NFS and domestic violence.
- How does the normalization of NFS in pornography contribute to its occurrence in real-life sexual encounters, both consensual and non-consensual?
- The normalization of NFS in pornography is linked to its increased occurrence in real-life sexual encounters, particularly among young people. Studies show a correlation between prior NFS and increased risk of homicide in intimate partner relationships. Many people, including those who participate consensually, are unaware of the health risks and illegality of the practice.
- What are the immediate implications of the UK government's finding that non-fatal strangulation (NFS) pornography is prevalent, and how is this affecting real-life sexual practices?
- In the UK, non-fatal strangulation (NFS) during sex, even consensual, is illegal and dangerous. A recent government review found NFS pornography prevalent online, potentially influencing real-life behavior. This has led to 700 prosecutions between July 2022 and June 2023.
- What are the long-term physical and psychological effects of NFS, and what preventative measures can address its normalization in society and the potential for escalation to fatal violence?
- The long-term consequences of NFS, both physical and psychological, are severe, ranging from brain damage and death to PTSD and depression. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of pornography's normalization of NFS and to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. The current legal framework needs stronger enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing heavily emphasizes the dangers and illegality of NFS, highlighting the risks of brain damage, death, and psychological trauma. While this information is crucial, the framing might unintentionally instill fear and discourage open discussion about the complexities of consent and sexual practices. The use of strong emotional language when describing the experiences of victims further contributes to this framing. The headline itself, "Why strangulation during sex has become 'normal' for many", is framed to generate concern and highlight the alleged normalization of a dangerous practice. This framing may overshadow the complexities of consent and the diversity of individual experiences.
Language Bias
The article utilizes emotionally charged language like "very scary," "terrifying," and "extremely dangerous" to describe the experience of NFS, which may influence the reader's emotional response and reinforce the perception of NFS as inherently negative and dangerous. While informative, this emotional language might detract from a fully objective analysis. More neutral alternatives such as "risky" or "potentially harmful" could be employed to provide balanced information.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the dangers and illegality of non-fatal strangulation (NFS) during sex, but it omits discussion of potential motivations beyond pornography consumption for those who engage in the practice, such as power dynamics or a desire for control. Additionally, the article does not delve into the prevalence of NFS in other contexts outside of sexual activity. While the article acknowledges the limitations of available statistics, providing more information about the demographics of those involved in NFS would improve the analysis. The perspectives of individuals who have engaged in consensual NFS might be limited.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by primarily portraying NFS as either consensual and pleasurable or non-consensual and dangerous. It doesn't sufficiently explore the complexities and gray areas where consent might be ambiguous or coercion is present in seemingly consensual scenarios. The nuances of consent and its possible erosion during such acts are not adequately addressed.
Gender Bias
While the article features accounts from both women who experienced non-consensual NFS and a woman who engaged in consensual NFS, the focus remains predominantly on the experiences of women. The perspectives of men involved in NFS are largely absent, creating an imbalance. However, the article does acknowledge that the percentage of women who report experiencing NFS is higher than that of men. More detailed analysis of gendered power dynamics in sexual contexts where NFS occurs would be beneficial.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the issue of non-fatal strangulation (NFS) during sex, disproportionately affecting women. Many women report experiencing NFS without consent, demonstrating a power imbalance and violation of bodily autonomy. The normalization of NFS in pornography and its subsequent occurrence in real-life sexual encounters further perpetuates gender inequality and violence against women. The article also shows that women are more likely to be victims of this than men. The data presented reveals a concerning trend of violence against women often perpetrated by intimate partners.