1
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Lehmann RJB, Jahnke S, Bartels R, Butzek J, Molitor A, Schmidt AF. Public Stigmatizing Reactions Toward Nonoffending Pedophilic Individuals Seeking to Relieve Sexual Arousal. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:1119-1129. [PMID: 37163734 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2198512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
People with pedophilia (PWP) can deal with their sexual desires by relieving sexual arousal without sexually exploiting children. Study 1 investigated whether public reactions toward nonoffending pedophilic men are affected by their strategies to relieve sexual arousal (nonsexual pictures vs. child sex dolls) or to reduce their sex drive via testosterone lowering medication in legally nonproblematic ways. A sample of German-speaking participants (N = 143) read three vignettes describing PWP using either of these strategies. Participants' (59.4% females) mean age was 39.7 (SD = 15.6). Although no significant difference was detected between the nonsexual pictures and sex dolls conditions on cognitive (except for dangerousness), affective, and behavioral levels, both consistently elicited more stigmatizing reactions than the testosterone-lowering medication condition. To investigate if this effect was driven by disapproving any relief of sexual arousal or the use of actual child stimuli in particular, Study 2 (N = 151) added two conditions with PWP using adult child-like stimuli to relieve sexual arousal: adult-as-schoolgirl porn and adult partner with childlike appearance. Here, Participants' (57.6% females) mean age was 28.0 (SD = 13.3). Results indicate that stigmatization was driven by disapproving the use of child stimuli rather than the relief of sexual arousal in general. Individuals with a sexual interest in children face strong stigmatizing reactions, which are only alleviated when they are described as undergoing treatment lowering sex drive or - to a lesser extent - being able to mate with an adult partner or using porn with adult actors posing as schoolgirls.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Jahnke
- Department of Health Promotion and Development, University of Bergen
| | | | | | | | - Alexander F Schmidt
- Institute of Psychology, Social & Legal Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz
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2
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Hanson KR, Döring N, Walter R. Sex Doll Specifications versus Human Body Characteristics. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:2025-2033. [PMID: 38755504 PMCID: PMC11176238 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02871-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Sex dolls have been criticized for reproducing unrealistic expectations about human bodies. Yet precise sex doll measurements are lacking in the literature nor has there been any systematic attempt to determine the extent to which sex dolls exaggerate human characteristics. To address this gap, we compared the specifications of sex dolls marketed in the USA with the characteristics of women and men living in the USA. Specifically, we tested if and to what degree female dolls were slimmer (H1) and male dolls more muscular (H2) than female and male humans, respectively. Furthermore, we tested if and to what degree female dolls' breasts (H3) and male dolls' penises (H4) were larger than those of women and men. We also tested if sex dolls' observed race/ethnicity was more often White than that of the US population (H5). In 2023, we collected the measures of all 757 full-body sex dolls marketed by the US retailer SexyRealSexDolls.com. Body measures from the US population were extracted from scientific literature. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using R. All hypotheses were fully or partially confirmed, which indicated that sex dolls marketed in the USA are not realistic depictions of the US population but hypergendered (H1, H2), hypersexualized (H3, H4), and racially fetishized (H5). Implications of the lack of realism are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth R Hanson
- Department of Criminal Justice and Sociology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Nicola Döring
- Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ehrenbergstr. 29, 98693, Ilmenau, Germany.
| | - Roberto Walter
- Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ehrenbergstr. 29, 98693, Ilmenau, Germany
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3
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Dubé S, Williams M, Santaguida M, Hu R, Gadoury T, Yim B, Vachon D, Johnson AP. Hot for Robots! Sexual Arousal Increases Willingness to Have Sex with Robots. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:638-648. [PMID: 36449349 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2142190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Robots designed to elicit sexual arousal are coming. Sexual arousal can increase our willingness to engage in risky or unconventional sexual behaviors. However, researchers have yet to examine whether this effect extends to robots. Hence, this study provides the first empirical evidence that state sexual arousal can increase our willingness to engage erotically with robots. Based on previous research, we hypothesized that levels of sexual arousal would positively predict willingness to engage erotically with robots (Hypothesis 1); and that men would be more willing to engage erotically with robots than women (Hypothesis 2). A convenience sample of 321 adults (≥18y) completed a two-part online survey measuring their willingness to have sex with, love, engage in an intimate relationship with, and be friends with a robot and a human before and after viewing a sexually explicit video. The results partly support Hypotheses 1-2. They show that state sexual arousal increases willingness to have sex with a robot, and that men are more willing to have sex and engage in an intimate relationship with a robot than women, pre- and post-manipulation. These findings are important given the rise of sex robots and their potential influence on our intimate decisions and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dubé
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | - M Williams
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | | | - R Hu
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | - T Gadoury
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | - B Yim
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | - D Vachon
- Department of Psychology, McGill University
| | - A P Johnson
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
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4
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Limoncin E, Gaudio B, Sansone A, Jannini TB, Ciocca G, Mollaioli D, Jannini EA. The role of metaverse on sexual health of people with disabilities: narrative review. Int J Impot Res 2023:10.1038/s41443-023-00807-0. [PMID: 38129693 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00807-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Metaverse is the implementation of an Internet-based hypothetical meta-universe, which should facilitate an immersive experience in meeting people, working, shopping and other leisure activities. Immersive reality makes it possible to feel involved in a virtual environment using the mechanism of the "embodied simulations", i.e., the capacity to evoke a sense of presence in a specific reality, whether real or imagined. The growing interest in the metaverse suggests exploring how this new kind of communicative space could be used to provide and guarantee sexual entertainment and/or education for people with disabilities. Through a thematic analysis, we aimed to define the theoretical framework and analyze scientific literature on this subject. Our purpose is to provide a comprehensive picture of the use of metaverse as a tool for sexuality, and of the possible benefits of such technologies for people with disabilities. To this end, we have also discussed a major topic, related to the Sexual Assistants, examining how their possible application can be implemented within the context of augmented reality. Our study further explores the importance of the metaverse in sexual education. Finally, we addressed the issue of cyber security as well as possible threats and negative consequences linked to metaverse misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Limoncin
- Dept. of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Benedetta Gaudio
- Dept. of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sansone
- Section of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso B Jannini
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Ciocca
- Dept. of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Mollaioli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Section of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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5
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Sperber S. Sex robots and virtual reality sex: advantages and challenges. Int J Impot Res 2023:10.1038/s41443-023-00766-6. [PMID: 37740025 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00766-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Shulamit Sperber
- Reuth TLV, Rehabilitation Hospital, Affiliated with Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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6
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Lievesley R, Harper CA, Woodward E, Tenbergen G. Fantasy Sexual Material Use by People with Attractions to Children. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:395-404. [PMID: 37523114 PMCID: PMC10506952 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-023-01435-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With the Internet allowing consumers easy access to fantasy and fictional sexual materials (FSM), it is becoming increasingly important to understand the context of their use among specific populations. Of particular, social, clinical, and legal interest is FSM use by people who are attracted to children and whether this may have a risk-enhancing or protective impact on their likelihood of committing a contact or non-contact sexual offence. RECENT FINDINGS There is a lack of data currently available in relation to the use of FSM by those with sexual attractions to children. Evidence from allied areas appears to show no meaningful associations between FSM use and sexual aggression. We propose a novel research program and some initial research questions that provide a theoretical framework for more evidence-based inquiry on FSM use by people who experience attractions to children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lievesley
- NTU Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Craig A Harper
- NTU Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Ellie Woodward
- NTU Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gilian Tenbergen
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, NY, 13126, USA
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7
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Desbuleux JC, Fuss J. The Self-Reported Sexual Real-World Consequences of Sex Doll Use. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023:1-15. [PMID: 37074356 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2199727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
It is a growing concern that the use of sex dolls and robots could affect human sexuality. This concern has led to a ban of child-like sex dolls in several countries and a call to ban adult-like sex dolls and robots by some scholars. However, empirical data is largely missing supporting this claim. Here, we present retrospective self-reported quantitative and qualitative data of a large sample (N = 224, 90.5% men, Mean age = 31 years, SD = 14.2) of teleiophilic (i.e., sexual orientation toward adults) and pedo-hebephilic participants. Using an online survey, we found that users reported an overall reduction in sexuality-related behaviors (e.g., porn consumption or visiting of sex workers) in response to doll ownership. Users in a relationship with a human were less affected by doll use, while those in a relationship with a doll reported greater effects. Interestingly, pedo-hebephilic users reported a greater reduction of sexual compulsivity compared to teleiophilic participants following doll use. Additionally, pedo-hebephilic participants more often reported acting out of illegal sexual fantasies with their dolls and a loss of interest in (sexual) intimacy with real children through doll use in the qualitative data. These self-reported data challenge the view that doll use is dangerously affecting human sexuality and instead suggest that dolls may be used as a sexual outlet for potentially dangerous and illegal (sexual) fantasies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne C Desbuleux
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen
| | - Johannes Fuss
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen
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8
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Loving a “defiant” AI companion? The gender performance and ethics of social exchange robots in simulated intimate interactions. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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9
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Desbuleux JC, Fuss J. Is the Anthropomorphization of Sex Dolls Associated with Objectification and Hostility Toward Women? A Mixed Method Study among Doll Users. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:206-220. [PMID: 35904521 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2103071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Both the ownership and development of sex dolls and robots are passionately debated, with skeptics suspecting that their increasing human-likeness and the accompanying anthropomorphization (i.e., attributing human-likeness) reinforce the objectification of, and hostility toward, women. As empirical data are largely lacking, we scrutinized this hypothesis in a pre-registered study among doll owners (N = 217), comparing two user groups: "toy group" (n = 104; doll as sex toy) and "partner group" (n = 113; doll as partner). We related their objectification tendencies (i.e., seeing women merely as objects, e.g., to promote sexual desire) as well as their hostility toward women, to the anthropomorphization of their doll. Additionally, we collected qualitative data on how participants perceived their doll usage affected their attitudes toward women. The partner group expressed greater levels of hostility and anthropomorphization, moderate in magnitude. Objectification mediated the influence of anthropomorphization on hostility and a higher percentage described a change in attitudes toward women in response to doll use. These data provide the first empirical evidence that the tendency to anthropomorphize dolls is related to negative attitudes toward women. Given the ongoing development of sex robots designed to surpass dolls in human-likeness and anthropomorphization, this finding seems highly significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne C Desbuleux
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen
| | - Johannes Fuss
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen
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10
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Sex robots and personality: It is more about sex than robots. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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11
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Peschka L, Raab M. A Thing like a Human? A Mixed-Methods Study on Sex Doll Usage. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2022; 34:728-746. [PMID: 38596391 PMCID: PMC10903549 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2128491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Sex dolls have evolved over the last decades and are getting more popular. Whether sex doll ownership should be protected as a sexual right that facilitates sexual health or whether its usage might be harmful to women and society is vividly discussed. In this polarized debate, empirical research is scarce and possible differentiations in the psychological functions of sex dolls remain nearly unknown. To further explore sex doll ownership, this study conducted five in-depth interviews with sex doll users and collected 131 written reports on sex doll ownership in an online survey with open and closed questions. In a mixed-methods approach, the data was then analyzed using Mayring's Qualitative Content Analysis and quantitative measures. Although the demographics of sex doll users are homogenous (single heterosexual males), results indicate that the use is divers. Sex dolls are mostly used as masturbatory aid, as substitutes for human partners, and as synthetic partners. We explore the similarities and differences between these kinds of usage and propose that a differentiation of sex doll use can enrich current research on social robotics, anthropomorphism, and misogyny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse Peschka
- Department of General Psychology and Methodology, University of Bamberg, Bamberg, Germany
| | - Marius Raab
- Department of General Psychology and Methodology, University of Bamberg, Bamberg, Germany
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12
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Krägeloh CU, Bharatharaj J, Albo-Canals J, Hannon D, Heerink M. The time is ripe for robopsychology. Front Psychol 2022; 13:968382. [PMID: 36211890 PMCID: PMC9536172 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.968382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As robotic applications become increasingly diverse, more domains of human lives are being involved, now also extending to educational, therapeutic, and social situations, with a trend to even more complex interactions. This diversity generates new research questions that need to be met with an adequate infrastructure of psychological methods and theory. In this review, we illustrate the current lack of a sub-discipline in psychology to systematically study the psychological corollaries of living in societies where the application of robotic and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is becoming increasingly common. We thus propose that organized efforts be made toward recognition of robopsychology as a sub-discipline so that the field of psychology moves away from isolated publications of robot- and AI-related topics to a body of knowledge that is able to meet the demands for change, as the world is preparing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. We propose a definition of robopsychology that not only covers the study of the effects of robots on human behavior, but also of robots and AI themselves, as well as acknowledging how this sub-discipline may eventually be fundamentally changed through robots and AI. In this sense, our definition mirrors an already existing definition of the field of robophilosophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian U. Krägeloh
- PAIR Lab New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- *Correspondence: Christian U. Krägeloh,
| | - Jaishankar Bharatharaj
- PAIR Lab India, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jordi Albo-Canals
- Lighthouse Disruptive Innovation Group, LLC., Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Daniel Hannon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - Marcel Heerink
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, Netherlands
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13
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From Sex Dolls to Sex Robots and Beyond: A Narrative Review of Theoretical and Empirical Research on Human-like and Personified Sex Tech. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-022-00331-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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14
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Stein DJ, Lochner C. Nosology of behavioral addictions: Intersections with philosophy of psychiatry •. J Behav Addict 2022; 11:186-190. [PMID: 35895455 PMCID: PMC9295244 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2022.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Writing in this journal, Brand and colleagues have proposed criteria for other specified disorders due to addictive behaviors. Their proposal intersects with key debates in philosophy of psychiatry, including how best to define mental disorders, to validate them, and to optimize their meta-structure. Review of these debates in the context of behavioral addictions suggests several conclusions. First, these debates involve "essentially contested" constructs that require ongoing consideration and judgment. Second, the complexity of psychopathology suggests multiple legitimate approaches to delineating traits and explicating mechanisms. Third, in optimizing meta-structure, non-psychobiological considerations are crucial - the overlapping public mental health approach to addictive disorders is paramount.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan J. Stein
- SA MRC Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Dept of Psychiatry & Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, South Africa,Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Christine Lochner
- SA MRC Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Dept of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
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15
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Dubé S, Santaguida M, Anctil D, Zhu CY, Thomasse L, Giaccari L, Oassey R, Vachon D, Johnson A. Perceived stigma and erotic technology: From sex toys to erobots. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2022.2067783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Dubé
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - M. Santaguida
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - D. Anctil
- Department of Philosophy, Jean-de-Brébeuf College, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technology, Laval University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - C. Y. Zhu
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - L. Thomasse
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - L. Giaccari
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - R. Oassey
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - D. Vachon
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - A. Johnson
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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16
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Szczuka JM. Flirting With or Through Media: How the Communication Partners' Ontological Class and Sexual Priming Affect Heterosexual Males' Interest in Flirtatious Messages and Their Perception of the Source. Front Psychol 2022; 13:719008. [PMID: 35273536 PMCID: PMC8902147 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.719008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Because technologies are frequently used for sexual gratification it seems plausible that artificial communication partners, such as voice assistants, could be used to fulfill sexual needs. While the idea of sexualized interaction with voice assistants has been portrayed in movies (e.g., "Her"), there is a lack of empirical research on the effect of the ontological class (human versus artificial) on the voice's potential to evoke interest in a sexualized interaction and its perception in terms of sexual attractiveness. The Sexual Interaction Illusion Model (SIIM), which emphasizes influences on sensations evoked by artificial interaction partners, furthermore suggests that there may be contextual influences, especially sexual arousal, that may be crucial for the question of engaging in a sexualized interaction with an artificial entity. To empirically investigate whether the ontological class of the speaker (computer-mediated human in comparison to voice assistants) and the level of sexual arousal affects the heterosexual males' interest in hearing more flirtatious messages and the perception of the communication partner's sexual attractiveness, an online experiment with between subject design was conducted. Two hundred and fifty seven respondents were confronted with at least four, and voluntarily six messages from either a computer-mediated human or a flirtatious voice assistant, in interaction with being previously primed sexually or neutrally. The results demonstrated that the effect of sexual arousal was not prevailing on the interest in further messages and the attractiveness perception of the interaction partners, while the ontological class did so. Here, the voice assistant evoked more interest in further messages and the technology itself, while the computer mediated human was perceived to be more sexually attractive and flirtatious, and evoked more social presence. The communication partners social presence was shown to be the predictor with most explanatory power for the interaction partners perceived sexual attractiveness, regardless of whether it was human or artificial. The results underline differences between artificial and human interaction partners, but also underline that especially social presence and the feeling that the user is addressed (in terms of flirtatiousness) is crucial in digitalized intimacy regardless of the ontological class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Szczuka
- Social Psychology: Media and Communication, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
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17
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Mara M, Appel M, Gnambs T. Human-Like Robots and the Uncanny Valley. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR PSYCHOLOGIE-JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1027/2151-2604/a000486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Abstract. In the field of human-robot interaction, the well-known uncanny valley hypothesis proposes a curvilinear relationship between a robot’s degree of human likeness and the observers’ responses to the robot. While low to medium human likeness should be associated with increased positive responses, a shift to negative responses is expected for highly anthropomorphic robots. As empirical findings on the uncanny valley hypothesis are inconclusive, we conducted a random-effects meta-analysis of 49 studies (total N = 3,556) that reported 131 evaluations of robots based on the Godspeed scales for anthropomorphism (i.e., human likeness) and likeability. Our results confirm more positive responses for more human-like robots at low to medium anthropomorphism, with moving robots rated as more human-like but not necessarily more likable than static ones. However, because highly anthropomorphic robots were sparsely utilized in previous studies, no conclusions regarding proposed adverse effects at higher levels of human likeness can be made at this stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Mara
- LIT Robopsychology Lab, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Austria
| | - Markus Appel
- Psychology of Communication and New Media, University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Timo Gnambs
- Leibniz Institute for Educational Trajectories (LIfBi), University of Bamberg, Germany
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18
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Döring N, Krämer N, Mikhailova V, Brand M, Krüger THC, Vowe G. Sexual Interaction in Digital Contexts and Its Implications for Sexual Health: A Conceptual Analysis. Front Psychol 2021; 12:769732. [PMID: 34916999 PMCID: PMC8669394 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.769732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
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. (1) Sexual interactions through digital technologies are face-to-face sexual interactions that (a) have been started digitally (e.g., people initiating face-to-face sexual encounters through adult dating apps) or (b) are accompanied by digital technology (e.g., couples augmenting their face-to-face sexual encounters through filming themselves during the act and publishing the amateur pornography online). (2) Sexual interactions via digital technology are technology-mediated interpersonal sexual interactions (e.g., via text chat: cybersex; via smartphone: sexting; via webcam: webcam sex/camming). (3) Sexual interactions with digital technology occur when the technology itself has the role of an interaction partner (e.g., sexual interaction with a sex robot or with a media persona in pornography). 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Döring
- Media Psychology and Media Design, Institute of Media and Communication Science, Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Nicole Krämer
- Social Psychology: Media and Communication, Department of Computer Science and Applied Cognitive Science, Faculty of Engineering, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Mikhailova
- Media Psychology and Media Design, Institute of Media and Communication Science, Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Matthias Brand
- General Psychology: Cognition and Center for Behavioral Addiction Research (CeBAR), Department of Computer Science and Applied Cognitive Science, Faculty of Engineering, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Tillmann H C Krüger
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Section of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerhard Vowe
- Communication and Media Studies, Center for Advanced Internet Studies (CAIS), Bochum, Germany
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Sexbots as Synthetic Companions: Comparing Attitudes of Official Sex Offenders and Non-Offenders. Int J Soc Robot 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12369-021-00797-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThis is the first Italian study to examine views on sexbots of adult male sex offenders and non-offenders, and their perceptions of sexbots as sexual partners, and sexbots as a means to prevent sexual violence. In order to explore these aspects 344 adult males were involved in the study. The study carried out two types of comparisons. 100 male sex offenders were compared with 244 male non-offenders. Also, sex offenders were divided into child molesters and rapists. Preliminary findings suggest that sex offenders were less open than non-offenders to sexbots, showed a lower acceptance of them, and were more likely to dismiss the possibility of having an intimate and sexual relationship with a sexbot. Sex offenders were also less likely than non-offenders to believe that the risk of sexual violence against people could be reduced if a sexbot was used in the treatment of sex offenders. No differences were found between child molesters and rapists. Though no definitive conclusion can be drawn about what role sexbots might play in the prevention and treatment of sex offending, this study emphasizes the importance of both exploring how sexbots are both perceived and understood. Sex offenders in this study showed a high dynamic sexual risk and, paradoxically, despite, or because of, their sexual deviance (e.g. deficits in sexual self-regulation), they were more inclined to see sexbots as just machines and were reluctant to imagine them as social agents, i.e. as intimate or sexual arousal partners. How sex offenders differ in their dynamic risk and criminal careers can inform experts about the mechanisms that take place and can challenge their engagement in treatment and intervention.
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Dewitte M, Reisman Y. Clinical use and implications of sexual devices and sexually explicit media. Nat Rev Urol 2021; 18:359-377. [PMID: 33948009 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00456-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Given that sexual pleasure is a core component of sexual health, devices that are designed to enhance and diversify sexual pleasure are particularly useful in clinical practice. Despite their growing popularity and widespread use in various biopsychosocial circumstances, many taboos still seem to exist, as indicated by the paucity of scientific literature on the prevalence, application and effectiveness of sexual devices for therapeutic use. However, sex toys and sexual devices are commonly used and have a variety of indications to expand individual and partnered sexuality and to treat sexual difficulties. Different devices are associated with specific advantages and potential risks, opportunities, barriers and ethical challenges when used in a clinical context. Increased knowledge about the aim and functional possibilities of sexual devices might help health-care professionals overcome potential embarrassment, preconceptions and other barriers, learn which patients might benefit from which products, consider their use in treatment programmes, educate about correct use and safety issues, and facilitate open communication about sexual pleasure with their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Dewitte
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.
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21
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Sexuality and Affection in the Time of Technological Innovation: Artificial Partners in the Japanese Context. RELIGIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/rel12050296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed an increase in the number of academic studies on the impact of technological advancements on human life, including possible transformations and changes in human sexuality following the development of sex-related devices, such as sex robots. In this context, terms such as posthuman sexuality, digisexuality, and techno-sexuality have emerged, signaling possible new understandings of sexual, intimacy, and emotional practices. It is important to note that ancient history shows that humankind has for a long time been fascinated with their relationship to non-living things, mostly human-like figures, such as dolls. The Ningyo (人形, the Japanese term for doll) has a long history of usage, and has deep religious and animistic significance in the Japanese context—there are records of sexual use as early as the 18th century. With this context in mind, this paper focuses on three Japanese examples, aiming to shine a light on beyond-human relationships, which include a Japanese man’s marriage to a digital character, sex dolls, and communicative robots, from both a sexual and emotional perspective. In a new horizon of sexual and romantic possibilities, how will humans respond, and what can emerge from these interactions?
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22
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Oleksy T, Wnuk A. Do women perceive sex robots as threatening? The role of political views and presenting the robot as a female-vs male-friendly product. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2020.106664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Abstract
Social robots that can interact and communicate with people are growing in popularity for use at home and in customer-service, education, and healthcare settings. Although growing evidence suggests that co-operative and emotionally aligned social robots could benefit users across the lifespan, controversy continues about the ethical implications of these devices and their potential harms. In this perspective, we explore this balance between benefit and risk through the lens of human-robot relationships. We review the definitions and purposes of social robots, explore their philosophical and psychological status, and relate research on human-human and human-animal relationships to the emerging literature on human-robot relationships. Advocating a relational rather than essentialist view, we consider the balance of benefits and harms that can arise from different types of relationship with social robots and conclude by considering the role of researchers in understanding the ethical and societal impacts of social robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony J. Prescott
- Department of Computer Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Döring N. How Is the COVID-19 Pandemic Affecting Our Sexualities? An Overview of the Current Media Narratives and Research Hypotheses. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2765-2778. [PMID: 32761282 PMCID: PMC7405790 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01790-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Döring
- Institute of Media and Communication Science, Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Ilmenau University of Technology, Ehrenbergstraße 29, 98693, Ilmenau, Germany.
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Abstract
Technology is giving rise to artificial erotic agents, which we call erobots (erôs + bot). Erobots, such as virtual or augmented partners, erotic chatbots, and sex robots, increasingly expose humans to the possibility of intimacy and sexuality with artificial agents. Their advent has sparked academic and public debates: some denounce their risks (e.g., promotion of harmful sociosexual norms), while others defend their potential benefits (e.g., health, education, and research applications). Yet, the scientific study of human-machine erotic interaction is limited; no comprehensive theoretical models have been proposed and the empirical literature remains scarce. The current research programs investigating erotic technologies tend to focus on the risks and benefits of erobots, rather than providing solutions to resolve the former and enhance the latter. Moreover, we feel that these programs underestimate how humans and machines unpredictably interact and co-evolve, as well as the influence of sociocultural processes on technological development and meaning attribution. To comprehensively explore human-machine erotic interaction and co-evolution, we argue that we need a new unified transdisciplinary field of research-grounded in sexuality and technology positive frameworks-focusing on human-erobot interaction and co-evolution as well as guiding the development of beneficial erotic machines. We call this field Erobotics. As a first contribution to this new discipline, this article defines Erobotics and its related concepts; proposes a model of human-erobot interaction and co-evolution; and suggests a path to design beneficial erotic machines that could mitigate risks and enhance human well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Dubé
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Dave Anctil
- Department of Philosophy, Jean-de-Brebeuf College, Montreal, QC Canada
- Observatoire sur les Impacts Sociétaux de l’Intelligence Artificielle et du Numérique, Laval University, Québec, QC Canada
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