Connected,online and off: Romantic partnered experiences on erotic webcam sites

Abstract

Erotic webcam modeling websites (or ‘camsites’) are an increasingly popular form of sextech in which users can pursue both sexual fulfillment and emotional connection. While previous research has explored the impact of similar technologies (e.g., online pornography) as well as transactional sex within partnered relationships, this study seeks to understand how users who access camsites with their in-person romantic partner perceive how camming has affected their overall connection. As part of a broader study of 5,124 participants, a subsample of 312 participants who reported engaging in partnered camsite usage were asked to assess their partnered camming interactions. Overall, a third of participants reported using a camsite with a romantic partner, with 56% using a camsite with their partner multiple times. Motivations were diverse but especially centered on a desire to ‘spice up the relationship’ and to ‘try something new’. Participants largely reported that the experience had a positive or neutral effect on their relationship, with improved sexual communication, greater understanding, or less awkwardness as a byproduct of using a camsite together. By exploring both an emerging sexual technology and a novel context of its use, this study provides necessary insight into how such technologies may shape romantic relationships and offers pathways for enhanced connection, particularly in the context of sexual intimacy.