Going to town with privacy: Exploring voyeurism and the motivations behind exposure of online secrets

Abstract

The study explores what influences as well as motivates the recording and publication of sex acts online for public consumption. Despite the increasing bombardment of the online space in Ghana with nude images and videos, research on the phenomenon is scanty. We examined the phenomenon and motivations behind such publications by the youth in Ghana, analyzing two young Ghanaian ladies. Three in-depth interviews of two young Ghanaian women were analyzed using the qualitative method of inquiry. Analysis of interviews revealed that one of the women publishes her own nude images and videos from a sense of frustration, with a view to seeking attention, gaining financial rewards, achieving social recognition, and having fun. The analysis further revealed that monetary gains, awards, and media attention motivate the publication of nude images online. Sexual exploitation was also identified as a factor that influenced the teenager to record her nude video. © Common Ground Research Networks, Daniel Edem Adzovie, Rita Holm Adzovie, Some Rights Reserved.