The research examines content depicting sexual acts with people who are asleep, unconscious or affected by substances. Among those answering the relevant question, 22.2% of men and 11.3% of women reported viewing such material.
Association is not causation
The researchers found associations between this viewing and self-reported perpetration or victimisation. A cross-sectional design cannot establish which came first or demonstrate that viewing caused an assault.
Consent and media literacy
The authors recommend combining media literacy with comprehensive sex education. Their proposals address portrayals that normalise absent consent and the need for accurate information about sexual activity involving an incapacitated person.
Context matters
The scientific paper appeared on 22 January; the university published its announcement on 29 January.
The date refers to the linked original publication. This summary preserves the context at that date.
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