La importancia de la valoración psicológica en la violencia sexual digital en el Ecuador

Abstract

This research addresses the issue of digital sexual violence in Ecuador, a phenomenon that has increased alongside the rapid growth of Information and Communication Technologies. The study identifies key factors such as social unawareness, limited dissemination of digital rights, the absence of standardized action protocols, and the insufficient training of judicial and healthcare professionals to address these crimes. Using a quantitative approach, surveys were conducted with one hundred professionals in the fields of law, psychology, and education to analyze the relevance of psychological assessment in judicial processes related to this problem. Findings reveal broad consensus on the seriousness of the phenomenon and the need to incorporate psychological evaluations as an essential tool to make emotional harm visible, strengthen judicial decisions, and support victim rehabilitation. The study describes recurring practices such as sexting, grooming, sextortion, happy slapping, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate content, all of which cause severe psychological consequences including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress, as well as academic and social repercussions. The research concludes that an integral intervention—based on timely psychological evaluation and supported by stricter legal reforms, inclusive awareness campaigns, and continuous professional training—is essential to ensure effective justice and real protection for victims of digital sexual violence in the country.