Episode 421: Digital Intimacy and the Rise of Erotic Camsites

As many as 1 in 5 adults have visited an erotic camsite. However, the appeal of these sites goes far beyond sexual gratification. A new study of camsite users finds that they are often looking for emotional connection and fulfillment, too. But are they actually finding it? In today’s show, we’re diving into the data and exploring whether intimacy is really an experience that can be commodified.

I’m joined once again by Ellen Kaufman, a Senior Research Associate at the Kinsey Institute. Her research focuses on the intersection of sexuality and technology, exploring how our relationships and overall sexual and emotional wellbeing are shaped by new modalities of connection.

Some of the specific topics we explore include:

• How is a camsite different from a traditional porn site?
• Who are the primary visitors of camsites?
• To what extent do users feel emotional bonds with cam models?
• Can we develop authentic intimacy in a transactional setting?

You can check out the website for the VIBES research team to learn more about Ellen’s work.

Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

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Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.