Sexting

Question 1

What is sexting?

Answer 1

Sending and receiving sexually explicit messages, or nude/seminude photographs/videos electronically.

Question 2

Why do teens typically sext?

Answer 2

To be fun and flirtatious

Peer pressure

Question 3

What are some of the consequences of sexting?

Answer 3

The content is often shared wth others (35-45%) and widely disseminated once on the internet
Increased likelihood of hooking up
Theoretical increased risk of compromising situations.
Legal consequences: possessing and distributing child pornography (even if they are sending images of themselves)

Question 4

What are some of the developmental changes in adolescence?

Answer 4

Increased abstract reasoning
Increased sense of perspective
Increased ability to compromise and set limits
Greater need for privacy
The emergence of sexual feelings and experimentation
The development of one’s own value system and refinement of moral and sexual values

Question 5

Have there been any convictions for sexting in Canada?

Answer 5

Not yet in Canada.
Although teens can be convicted and charged for possessing and distributing child pornography, even if the pictures were of themselves.

Question 6

How should we advise parents to approach this issue?

Answer 6

Be aware of their teens technologies and friends
Ask teens about their understanding of sexting and the limits of privacy with the internet
Explain no sexual pictures should be allows
Monitor online and cell phone activity (be transparent about this)
Help teens identify possible consequences of behaviours

Question 7

What should physicians do about this issue?

Answer 7

Advise parents
Include sexting behaviours in HEADSS history,
Talk about risks and potential consequences of sexting