Applications are invited for this fees-paid PhD studentship starting 1st October 2018 at Leeds Beckett University.
Project Description
Increasing economic and health inequalities restrict women in accessing assisted conception via the medico-legal structures of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). Consequently, increasing numbers of women are resorting to obtaining sperm donations from men on unregulated websites and social networking sites. Initial research (McQuoid, 2015) indicates that one in two of these women are abused by unregulated sperm donors, who insist on “Artificial Insemination Plus” (AI+), i.e., the woman sexually stimulates the man to produce the sperm sample, “Partial Insemination” (PI), i.e. the man partially inserts his penis into the woman, or “Natural Insemination” (NI), i.e. the man has unprotected sex with the woman to impregnate her. These men often sexually groom women in a vulnerable position to convince them that “PI”/“NI” doesn't constitute sex and that these will be more effective than artificial insemination, or otherwise mislead women, agreeing to artificial insemination but then demanding AI+/PI/NI. Some online sperm donors also pressure women to send sexual photos/messages, demand high financial remuneration and/or sexua*lly assault women pregnant with their sperm. This abuse disproportionately affects marginalised women, e.g. limited economic means, intellectual/psychosocial disabilities, young/sexual minority women. This is an important, but very new, area of research. This project is likely to involve:
• A scoping review to map the key concepts underpinning this new area (online sperm donation and women's experiences of it) and the main sources and types of evidence available, including policies, legislation, academic scholarship and debates.
• An environmental scan to systematically identify the websites and social media platforms used by online sperm donors, followed by a qualitative analysis of how men, women and children are constructed within these websites/platforms.
• A qualitative longitudinal study of women looking for online sperm donors, starting with their initial search and following their journeys over a 12- to 18-month period. This could involve diaries and interviews, though other (particularly creative) methods, are welcomed.
• Possibly, as well/instead of the longitudinal study, retrospective qualitative research with women about their previous experiences of online sperm donors.
Mode of Study and Funding
This PhD can be completed full-time (3-4 years) or part-time (4-6 years). The studentship covers the cost of tuition fees for UK and EU students (currently £4,260 p.a. for full-time UK/EU students). Prospective students from outside the UK/EU should contact Research Admissions for further information. All Leeds Beckett Psychology PhD students have a budget of £1000 each to spend on conference attendance and additional funds are available for research-related costs. For funding towards living costs, see: https://www.gov.uk/funding-for-postgraduate-study.
Further Information
Click the “Apply Online” button for information on Eligibility, How to Apply, and Recommended Reading. The closing date for applications is midnight on 2nd September 2018. Shortlisting is due to take place 5th September. Interviews will take place on 13th September.
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