Workshop on Sextortion, Image Abuse & Digital Consent

Overview

Students today are growing up in a digital environment where ideas about relationships, gender, and behaviour are shaped as much by online content as by real-life experience. From social media trends to influencer narratives, repeated exposure to certain messages can normalise disrespect, reinforce stereotypes, and influence how young people see themselves and others.

This workshop helps students make sense of that environment. It explores how influence works, how attitudes are formed, and how online narratives—including misogynistic content—can shape behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.

What the session covers

Students will:

• Understand why pressure to share images occurs and how it is often normalised

• Learn how sextortion works, including the stages from initial interaction to coercion and control

• Explore the risks of image sharing, including screenshots, distribution, and long-term reputational impact

• Understand emerging risks such as deepfakes and AI-generated content

• Learn how peer dynamics contribute to image-based harm

• Know what steps to take if they or someone they know is affected

How the session is delivered

The session is practical, direct, and grounded in real scenarios that students recognise. It focuses on decision-making in real time—helping students understand how situations develop and how to respond safely under pressure.

Clear guidance is provided on boundaries, consent, and immediate actions, ensuring students leave with practical, usable knowledge.

What students will gain

Students will leave with:

• A clear understanding of digital consent and personal boundaries

• Practical strategies to resist pressure and make safe decisions

• Confidence to take immediate action if something goes wrong

• Knowledge of how and where to seek support

Why this matters for schools

Schools are increasingly dealing with:

• image-sharing incidents between students

• cases of online coercion and pressure

• safeguarding concerns linked to sextortion and reputational harm

This workshop provides a direct, practical response—supporting schools to address these risks proactively and meet safeguarding expectations.