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No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms. Based on its prevalence, there is an urgent need to better understand the mechanisms, opportunities and risks of sexual interaction in digital contexts SIDC that are related with sexual arousal. While there is a growing body of literature on SIDC, there is also a lack of conceptual clarity and classification.
Therefore, based on a conceptual analysis, we propose to distinguish between sexual interaction 1 through , 2 via , and 3 with digital technologies. The three types of SIDC and their respective subtypes are explained and backed up with empirical studies that are grouped according to two major mediators: consent and commerce.
Regarding the causes and consequences of the three types of SIDC we suggest a classification that entails biological, psychological, social, economic, and technological factors. Regarding implications of SIDC we suggest to focus on both opportunities and risks for sexual health.
The proposed conceptual framework of SIDC is meant to inform future research. Keywords: internet sexuality, cybersex, online sexual activities OSA , sexting, pornography, sex robots, sexual consent, commercial sex.
