Nonconsensual Condom-Use Deception: An Empirically Based Conceptualization of Stealthing

In recent years, the act of stealthing, also termed nonconsensual condom removal (NCCR), has become an emerging important topic related to nonconsensual sexual experiences. We performed a rapid review by searches in Web of Science (245 articles), Medline (157 articles), and PsycINFO (72 articles). The studies, in English, French, Italian, or Spanish, that reported empirical data on stealthing were included, except for those focusing on the legal response to the phenomenon. The final sample of 16 articles of various design is analyzed. According to this review, more than 10% of women experience stealthing in their lifetime, and men having sex with men also experience stealthing. The article describes the empirical research literature in the field, explores terminological and conceptual challenges, and proposes a new and more comprehensive term (nonconsensual condom-use deception), and a revised definition and categorization of the behavior, according to the concrete manifestation of consent breach, the associated practices, or the underlying motivation. We argue that research, as well as policy and practice responses to this growing problem need to be guided by a conceptual framework that uses information gathered directly from those who experienced it.