Evaluating the Effects of Internal and External Controls on the Exposure to and Distribution of Sexually Explicit Images Through Situational Action Theory

Abstract This study examined how self-control and deterrence (perceived punishment) influence exposure to and distribution of sexually explicit images, using Situational Action Theory (SAT). SAT suggests that internal and external controls operate when personal morality and environmental moral rules conflict. It is argued that self-control works as a control when morality is high but environmental moral rules are weak, while deterrence is effective when moral rules are strong but personal morality is low. This study involved 608 university students in Seoul, examining exposure to and distribution of sexually explicit images separately. For exposure, findings aligned with SAT: self-control was effective with high morality and weak moral rules, but deterrence was ineffective with strong rules and low morality. Conversely, for distribution, self-control restricted distribution with low morality and weak moral rules, and deterrence also acted as a control under this condition. The study concludes with a discussion of the implications.