Sexting and the Dangers of Pressing “Send”
Sex texting, or more commonly known as sexting, involves the sending, receiving or forwarding of sexual photos or sexually suggestive messages through text message or email. The way we communicate today has been revolutionized with the advances in technology, namely the Smartphone. Rather than rely on flirting with someone of the opposite sex face-to-face like generations of the past, technology of the 21st century emboldens teenagers to increase the level of intimacy in a relationship from the palm of one’s hand. While high school and college students send sexual messages for a variety of reasons, the act of sending a nude photo can be exciting for both the sender and receiver. However, once the original message has left the source, the originator no longer has control over the material. In some cases, these explicit images may be lost, forwarded, or used as blackmail after a nasty breakup. As a result, there are multiple social, legal, and devastating risks involved when a teenager chooses to sext that have the potential to be avoided through increased awareness and understanding of sexting behaviors. The age at which American teens acquire their first cell phone is growing younger and younger, increasing the likelihood and prevalence of sexting among high school students. According to a survey by the PEW Research Center, 75% of all teens ages 12-17 own a cell phone that they use, not just for calling, but to access social media and to take and share photos. (Lenhart, 2009) About 64% of young adults, ages 20-26, are sending or posting sexually suggestive messages. (Yarber & Sayad, 2012) Electronic devices of today’s digital age have changed the game of sexual exchanges. Rather than go through the sometimes uncomfortable act of undressing in front of the opposite sex for the first time, teens are able to