Work

Societal Perceptions and Understanding of Voyeurism & Upskirting in Young Adult Singaporean Nationals: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Despite near-global legal reforms to tackle voyeurism and upskirting offences (VUs), such behaviours remain prevalent in Singapore—an under-reached population for empirical research in the niche of image-based sexual abuse and one where conservative views and sex-related taboos persist. This study consists of interviews with ten young adult Singaporean nationals about their understanding of VUs, victim-survivors thereof, and how such views interact with Singaporean culture and societal norms. Reflective thematic analysis was used to delineate the two predominant themes of the (1) Unaccountability of Perpetrators, wherein VUs are minimised and excused at both societal (Technological and Institutional Affordances) and individual levels (Sexual Deviancy & Pornography), and (2) Burden of Victimisation, which explored perceptions of victim-survivors as a gendered experience (Gendered Vulnerability), where norms around modesty impacted victim-blaming (Moralised Modesty & Responsibility), resulting in harm minimisation (Harm Awareness & Minimisation). Findings have implications for how legislators, law enforcement, and educational institutions address the minimisation of gender-based violence through shifts in social narratives, awareness, and responses.

Source: Behavioral Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/bs16040531

Authors: Alfeera Natasha Jumat, Georgina Mclocklin, Dean Fido

Institution: University of Derby

Language: English

Topic: Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Gender equality, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,654