Societal and Technological Dimensions of Online Sexual Behaviours: A Systematic Review of Contemporary Challenges and Implications

Abstract

This paper examines the societal and technological dimensions of online sexual behaviours and explores emerging challenges and implications. It discusses cultural norms within digital social contexts, gendered vulnerabilities, mental health consequences, and patterns of victimisation. The review also analyses technological developments including deepfake production, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and social media infrastructures and highlights their influence on privacy, content creation, and legal governance. The findings underscore the complex interactions between societal attitudes and technological capabilities that continuously reshape how online sexual behaviours are produced, normalised, and regulated. To address these multidimensional issues, the review emphasises the importance of strengthened regulatory frameworks, multistakeholder collaboration, and public awareness initiatives that promote safer digital environments. This study employed a systematic literature review approach, enabling the inclusion of both empirical and conceptual studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the societal, psychological, legal, and technological aspects of online sexual behaviours. To ensure transparency and methodological rigour, the reporting framework followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines