Ghana Psychological Association Urges Support for Victims in Intimate Video Scandal
By: Maame Efua Kwaduah
The Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) has expressed concern over the psychological impact of a recent scandal involving the alleged non-consensual recording and circulation of intimate videos of several young women in the country.
The association has called on the public to focus on accountability and victim support rather than assigning blame to the women involved.
In a statement, the GPA emphasised that the incident is not only a legal matter but also a serious mental health issue with potential long-term consequences for the victims and society at large.
The situation reportedly involves a foreign national who secretly recorded intimate encounters with several women, and the circulation of these videos constitutes a form of sexual exploitation.
The association highlighted that victims of such violations often experience a range of psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, feelings of shame and social withdrawal. In extreme cases, some may develop suicidal thoughts.
“They did not consent to having their most private moments shared online. The violation of their trust and dignity carries psychological consequences that may follow them for years, affecting their relationships, their careers, their self-worth, and their ability to function in daily,” the association stated.
The GPA stressed that the women did not consent to being recorded or having their private moments shared publicly and that the violation of trust and personal dignity can affect relationships, careers and everyday functioning for years.
The association also expressed concern about public commentary that has focused on criticising the victims rather than holding the alleged perpetrator accountable.
“To the Affected Women: You are not defined by what was done to you. What happened to you was a violation of your trust and your rights. The Ghana Psychological Association and its network of mental health professionals stand ready to provide psychological support. We encourage you to reach out for help and to know that you are not alone,” part of the statement read.
Such victim-blaming, the GPA warned, deepens trauma and discourages other victims from seeking help or reporting abuse.
The GPA clarified that social interactions, visiting someone, or being in a relationship cannot be interpreted as consent for secret recordings or public distribution of private material.
Beyond the immediate incident, the association noted that broader cultural and social factors, including Ghana’s tradition of hospitality and openness, may influence interactions but do not excuse violations of personal boundaries.
The association warned that public ridicule or shaming of victims sends a harmful message to women and girls in Ghana, signalling that they may not be supported if exploited.
The GPA urged the public to prioritise empathy, reporting and support for victims to help prevent psychological harm and foster a safer environment for all.
