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Holfeld B, Mishna F, Craig W, Zuberi S. A Latent Profile Analysis of the Consensual and Non-Consensual Sexting Experiences among Canadian Adolescents. YOUTH & SOCIETY 2024; 56:713-733. [PMID: 38586084 PMCID: PMC10990801 DOI: 10.1177/0044118x231202814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Different patterns of sexting behaviors were examined to provide a more nuanced understanding of the context in which sexting occurs among adolescents. Participants were 1,000 Canadian adolescents (50.2% girls) between 12 and 18 years (Mage = 15.21, SD = 2.00) who completed measures of sexting, cyber bullying and victimization, problematic social media use, self-regulation, and demographics. Contrary to our hypotheses, three latent profiles of sexting represented the frequency of sexting rather than whether the sexting was consensual versus non-consensual or with a partner versus non-partner. Participants in the moderate and high sexting profiles representing one fifth of youth, reported less self-regulation, experienced more cyber victimization, and engaged in more cyber bullying and problematic social media use than those in the no/low sexting profile. Our findings support the normalcy approach to education, which considers some sexting among healthy developmental behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Holfeld
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, Canada
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2
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Thorne E, Babchishin KM, Fisico R, Healey L. Sexting in Young Adults: A Normative Sexual Behavior. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:593-609. [PMID: 38082175 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02728-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
With the advancement of technology, sexting has become more prominent in high school and university samples. The current study examined the rates and characteristics of sexting among an online sample of 2,828 young adults aged 18-30, primarily from the U.S. and Canada. We found that most participants sext (81%), sext often (most report ≥ 11 sexts), and start young (most by 16-17 years of age). Common reasons for sexting echoed reasons for participating in other normative sexual behaviors, including that it was sexually arousing, they were asked and wanted to reciprocate, or they wanted to flirt. Sexual coercion was a gendered phenomenon, with 1 in 10 cisgender women and 1 in 50 cisgender men reporting having sent a sext due to being threatened. The body parts captured in cisgender men's sexts were more diverse, whereas cisgender women focused on their chest, underwear/genitalia, and stomach. Sexual orientation was also found to be a relevant factor, with different patterns in sexting experiences emerging across identities. The current study adds to the mounting evidence that sexting is a normative sexual behavior. Sexual education programs should provide youth with information on consent and safe sexting practices rather than follow an abstinence approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Thorne
- John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelly M Babchishin
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - Rebecca Fisico
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lindsay Healey
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
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3
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Chan LS, Wu-Ouyang B. Sexting Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Hong Kong and Taiwan: Roles of Sensation-Seeking, Gay Identity, and Muscularity Ideal. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:2373-2384. [PMID: 36849674 PMCID: PMC9970127 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02559-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Prior studies found that sexting was associated with risky sexual activities and that men who have sex with men (MSM) engaged in more frequent sexting than their heterosexual counterparts. Therefore, it is pertinent to understand what factors are associated with sexting among MSM. This study explored the relationships between sensation-seeking, gay identity confusion, and muscularity ideal with sexting behaviors. An online survey was administered to 355 and 448 18-34-year-old MSM in Hong Kong and Taiwan, respectively. While the number of sexting partners and the frequency of sexting were similar across the two regions, they had different associations with psychological factors. In Hong Kong, sensation-seeking was positively related to the number of sexting partners, while in Taiwan, it was positively related to the frequency of sending sexts. In Hong Kong, MSM who were more confused about their sexual orientation had fewer sexting partners. In both regions, MSM holding a stronger muscularity ideal also had more sexting partners. Gay identity confusion and muscularity ideal were associated with sexting under pressure in Taiwan; all three psychological factors concerned were associated with sexting under pressure in Hong Kong. Overall, these results showed that some MSM found sexting to be a sensation-fulfilling activity, but some were vulnerable to sexting under pressure. Counseling services to MSM about their sexual identity and concern for muscularity are needed to prevent them from becoming victims of forced sexting. Finally, the inconsistent results for the Hong Kong and Taiwanese samples indicated the importance of considering regional specificity in sexting research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lik Sam Chan
- School of Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
| | - Biying Wu-Ouyang
- School of Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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4
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Pistoni C, Martinez Damia S, Alfieri S, Marta E, Confalonieri E, Pozzi M. What are the predictors of sexting behavior among adolescents? The positive youth development approach. J Adolesc 2023. [PMID: 36717108 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research supporting adolescent sexual health and empowerment is needed. The study investigates sexting among adolescents using the resources that characterized the Positive Youth Development Approach (PYD) and considering the impact of parental monitoring. The study aims to describe sexting among three different groups of adolescents (i.e., Non Sexters [NS], Passive Sexters [PS], and Active Sexters [AS]) considering age and sex (first aim). It also seeks to identify predictors among the PYD's resources and parental monitoring that explain the probability of falling into the sexter or the non sexter groups (second aim) as well as the probability of falling into the active or the passive sexter groups (third aim). METHOD The national representative sample was composed of 1866 Italian adolescents: 980 girls and 886 boys aged between 13 and 19 years old (M = 16.26; SD = 1.49). Participants completed a questionnaire that measured sexting behavior, PYD resources, and parental monitoring scales. Chi-squared and multivariate logistic regressions were performed. RESULTS Almost half of the participants (46.0%) were NS, 36.2% were PS, and 17.8% were AS. Results show that sex, age, Connection, and Child Disclosure are significant predictors of sexting behavior. CONCLUSIONS Results highlighted that sexting can be seen as a relational activity that adolescents use to establish connections as part as their sexual exploration. A parenting approach that promotes disclosure may help adolescents explore safely their sexuality and be accountable. Results also indicate that parents need to build educational alliances with schools to promote sexual health and empowerment among teenagers while preventing risk of harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Pistoni
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy.,CERISVICO - Research Centre on Community Development and Organisational Quality of Life, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sara Martinez Damia
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy.,CERISVICO - Research Centre on Community Development and Organisational Quality of Life, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sara Alfieri
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy
| | - Elena Marta
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy.,CERISVICO - Research Centre on Community Development and Organisational Quality of Life, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Maura Pozzi
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy
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Ragona A, Mesce M, Cimino S, Cerniglia L. Motivations, Behaviors and Expectancies of Sexting: The Role of Defensive Strategies and Social Media Addiction in a Sample of Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1805. [PMID: 36767172 PMCID: PMC9913953 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults engage in sexting behaviors. Research has mainly emphasized the relationship between motivations and sexting behaviors, with little attention paid to sexting expectations and the potential role of coping strategies. This study aims to explore the measure of emotional-behavioral functioning with the Youth/Adult Self Report (based on the subject's age), the use of defensive strategies measured with the Response Evaluation Measure (REM-71), social media addiction with the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and all dimensions of sexting: motivations, behavior and expectations measured with the Sexting Motivation Questionnaire (SMQ), Sexting Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ) and Sexpectancies Questionnaire (SQ), respectively. N = 209 adolescents and young adults were recruited from high schools and universities in Rome to complete the self-report questionnaires. Results show that males tend to have higher expectations of sexting than females. We also found that expectations play a role in determining sexting behaviors and motivations. Our hypotheses on social media addiction and sexting were confirmed, while the relationship between the defensive strategies and sexting was not significant as expected. Further studies on this topic are desirable in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ragona
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Rome, Sapienza, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Mesce
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Rome, Sapienza, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Cimino
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Rome, Sapienza, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Cerniglia
- Faculty of Psychology, International Telematic University Uninettuno, 00186 Rome, Italy
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Le L, Goegan LD, Daniels LM. The Impact of Autonomous and Controlled Sexting Motivations on Subjective Well-being and Relationship Quality. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:243-254. [PMID: 35881253 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02361-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Although many studies have examined reasons for sexting among young people, few have taken into account the underlying motivations associated with different reasons and how that may be associated with divergent positive or negative outcomes. This study addressed this gap by employing Self-determination Theory to assess how autonomous and controlled motivations for sexting were related to subjective well-being and relationship quality among emerging adults. Online survey data from 267 emerging adults (72 men, 195 women) ages 18-25 who had sent sexually explicit images or videos of themselves through electronic means to a committed partner were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling. Autonomous and controlled motivations for sexting were significantly related to pleasant affect, with autonomous motivation predicting more pleasant affect and controlled motivation predicting less pleasant affect. Autonomous motivations for sexting were related to enhanced relationship quality, whereas controlled motivations for sexting were related to decreased relationship quality. Neither form of motivation had a statistically significant relationship with unpleasant affect or life satisfaction. These results demonstrate that the quality of motivations for sexting among emerging adults in committed relationships may contribute to different outcomes, particularly in terms of relationship quality. Implications for counselors, educators, and practitioners working with emerging adults who sext are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Le
- 6-123F Education North, Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G5, Canada.
| | - Lauren D Goegan
- 230L Education Building, Department of Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Lia M Daniels
- 6-123F Education North, Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G5, Canada
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7
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Howard D, Klettke B, Clancy E, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M. Sexting with benefits? Exploration of sexting behaviours through the lens of protection motivation theory. Body Image 2022; 43:301-313. [PMID: 36240694 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Sexting is a common form of sexual communication that is often considered normative and beneficial despite some research highlighting its negative social, psychological, and legal repercussions. Using protection motivation theory (PMT), this study examines how young adults weigh the pros and cons of sending consensual sexts, sexting under pressure, and deciding against sending sexts, and whether body image dissatisfaction interacts with any of the decision-making processes. In total, 906 participants (554, 61.14% women), aged 18-25 years (M = 21.65, SD = 2.01), completed an online measure of sexting behaviours, body image, and protection motivation. Overall, 71.41% of respondents ever sent a sext. Of those, 45.07% and 36.32% felt pressure to sext or sent a sext because of pressure. Further, 63.90% participants ever considered and decided not to send a sext. All models predicting various sexting behaviours were significant and provided a partial support for the PMT. Body image was a unique predictor of 'pressured' sexting but its interactions with the PMT subscales for pressured sexting and decisions against sexting were non-significant. Our study illustrates the need for increasing young people's self-efficacy and body image to improve their sexting agency and experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Howard
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia.
| | - Bianca Klettke
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Clancy
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Matthew Fuller-Tyszkiewicz
- Deakin University, Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
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8
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Kokkinos CM, Krommida C. Prevalence of Sexting among Greek University Students: A Matter of Relationships? THE JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 156:459-477. [PMID: 35881415 DOI: 10.1080/00223980.2022.2093822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The study examines sexting among 3,171 Greek university students in the context of different relationship types (i.e. romantic partners, friends, strangers). Participants completed an anonymous online survey, assessing sexting during the last year along with demographic and relationship status information. Sexting was a common practice among participants, with the use of mobile phones and the Messenger application to exchange sexts. Sexting was more common among males and non-heterosexuals. Participants aged 25 and above were more likely to exchange sexts with strangers than those aged between 18 and 24. Romantic partners reported exchanging sexts more often than strangers. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that non-heterosexual males in a long-distance romantic relationship were more likely to participate in sexting, and that non-heterosexual older males who have been single for the last year were more likely to exchange sexual or provocative messages with strangers. Findings are discussed in terms of their implications.
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A Cross-Cultural Examination of the Sexting Motives and Attitudes: Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Croatia. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/7606949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Many sexting studies conducted in the Western cultures have shown that the percentage is higher in less traditional cultures. However, the generalizability of this phenomenon to non-Western cultures has not been extensively researched. The purpose of this study is to examine and explain cross-cultural differences in sexting behavior among subjects from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. A mixed methods approach was used. The first, qualitative phase included focus groups with two groups of high school students from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia (
), aged 15 to 19. In the second, quantitative phase, questionnaires were sent to 440 young adults with an average age of 21 years (
). From the interviews with the young people, nonconsensual sexting was perceived as less beneficial. Sexting was viewed as a double standard. The quantitative study revealed gender and country differences in attitudes toward sexting and motives for sexting. Positive attitudes toward sexting were found to predict different forms of sexting motives in both samples. In the sample from Bosnia and Herzegovina, age was found to predict sexting with instrumental motives and body image reinforcement motives. Gender, on the other hand, was found to be predictive of instrumental sexting motives in the Croatian sample and body image reinforcement sexting motives in the Bosnia and Herzegovina sample. This study illustrates the value of cross-cultural approaches combined with mixed methods as a design to study sexting behavior.
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Falconer T, Quinn-Nilas C, Milhausen R. Body image self-consciousness, sexting, and sexual satisfaction among midlife Canadians. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3138/cjhs.2021-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Life circumstances at midlife are often different than those for younger adults (e.g., relationship type and duration, physical health, experience of sexual problems), and these circumstances impact experiences of sexuality and sexual behaviour. Past research on sexual behaviours like sexting, which has been primarily conducted on young people, may not generalize to middle-aged adults. Sexting may be a beneficial activity for midlife adults in long-term relationships who are seeking private and convenient ways to communicate sexual interest. Furthermore, as in younger samples, sexting may be associated with body image and sexual satisfaction. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 640 midlife (40–59 years old) married Canadians was conducted to address these suppositions. Structural equation modelling was used to test the factorial validity of a body image self-consciousness (BISC) scale and to investigate the connections between BISC, sexting frequency (to communicate sexual interest, to initiate sexual activity, and that include a picture), and sexual satisfaction. Almost one-half of participants (43%) reported sexting to communicate sexual interest, 37% sexted to initiate sexual activity, and 18% sexted sexy pictures of themselves. Women with lower levels of BISC were more likely to sext (communicate, initiate, and pictures), and men with lower levels of BISC were more likely to send sexts with pictures. Both men and women with lower levels of BISC and those who engaged in sexting to communicate sexual interest had higher levels of sexual satisfaction. Sexting may be an opportunity for busy marital partners to engage in technology-mediated sexual activity when apart. The current results indicate that technology-mediated sexual communication has similar psychological mechanisms to face-to-face interactions and that sexting may be a beneficial behaviour for sexual satisfaction within midlife marriages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha Falconer
- Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Quinn-Nilas
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - Robin Milhausen
- Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Paquette MM, Dion J, Bőthe B, Girouard A, Bergeron S. Heterosexual, Cisgender and Gender and Sexually Diverse Adolescents’ Sexting Behaviors: The Role of Body Appreciation. J Youth Adolesc 2022; 51:278-290. [DOI: 10.1007/s10964-021-01568-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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12
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Eleuteri S, Alessi F, Petruccelli F, Saladino V. The Global Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Individuals' and Couples' Sexuality. Front Psychol 2022; 12:798260. [PMID: 35069392 PMCID: PMC8770331 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.798260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and its related restrictions significantly impacted individuals' health, wellbeing, and security. Isolation, limitation of movement, social distancing, and forced cohabiting have had a strong influence on all areas of people's lives as well as on their sexuality. Investigating how the COVID-19 outbreak and its consequences impacted people's sexuality was the primary aim of this review. Particularly, we focused on: (1) the variables associated with the improvement or the deterioration of individuals' and couples' lives during the pandemic; (2) the use of sex as a coping strategy; (3) the impact of COVID-19 outbreak on LGBT people. Results have shown that the worsening of sexual life seems to be related to couples' conflict, emotions and psychological difficulties, being female, being single or away from the partner, being a health care worker, and having children. Moreover, a detrimental effect on sexuality was associated with stress, forced cohabitation, routine, anxiety and worry about the job and the pandemic, feeling partner distance, being unhappy with their partner, and lack of privacy. On the other hand, improvements in sexuality were associated with living happily with a partner, being happy and satisfied with a partner, feeling less stressed and more bored, having more free time, having fewer recreation opportunities, and having minor workload. During the pandemic, there was an increase in using sex toys, pornography consumption, masturbating, and trying sexual experimentations. Among LGBT people, an increase was found in the number of casual sexual partners potentially due to the perceived lower likelihood of transmission through sex. Moreover, the increase in sexual activity may have represented a coping strategy to quarantine-related distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Eleuteri
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy,*Correspondence: Stefano Eleuteri
| | | | | | - Valeria Saladino
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Cassino, Cassino, Italy
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13
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The prevalence, context and perceptions of sexting among non-heterosexual men from various generations in Belgium. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.107031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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14
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Bragard E, Fisher CB. Associations between sexting motivations and consequences among adolescent girls. J Adolesc 2022; 94:5-18. [PMID: 35353410 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately 15% of adolescent girls in the United States have engaged in sexting. Although sexting frequency is similar across genders, adolescent girls report more negative consequences. To date, the majority of sexting research focuses on demographic and behavioral predictors of sexting frequency or onset and there is limited research on the associations between different sexting motivations and consequences. This cross-sectional study draws upon approach-avoidance motivation theory to examine how different sexting motivations serve as risk and protective factors related to negative sexting consequences and which motivations promote more positive experiences. METHOD A sample of 200 cisgender girls, 14-18 years, diverse with respect to race/ethnicity and geographical region, who had sexted a male recipient in the past year completed an online survey. RESULTS Regression analyses indicated that avoidance motivations sexting in response to peer pressure and popularity and sexting in response to male coercion were risk factors for negative sexting consequences. Sexual subjectivity (sexual body-esteem, entitlement to sexual pleasure, and sexual self-reflection) was a protective factor against negative sexting consequences and, along with sexting for sexual or romantic reasons, an approach motivation, was associated with experiencing more positive sexting consequences. CONCLUSION These findings support previous recommendations that schools incorporate ways to counter pressured sexting into existing cyberbullying or dating violence curricula and also align with a positive sexual development framework that acknowledges the importance of consensual and healthy sexual experiences during adolescence that minimize risks and vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Bragard
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Celia B Fisher
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, Bronx, New York, USA.,Center for Ethics Education, Fordham University, Bronx, New York, USA
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15
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Dolev-Cohen M, Ricon T. Talking About Sexting: Association Between Parental Factors and Quality of Communication About Sexting With Adolescent Children in Jewish and Arab Society in Israel. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 48:429-443. [PMID: 34772317 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2021.2002489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sexting (sending and receiving sexual messages online), a legitimate means of communication if there is mutual consent, may put adolescent users at risk. Hence, parents must be able to address their children's sexuality and be capable of mediating the implications of sexting for them. Cultural differences may play a role in this important discourse. The current study sought to identify parental factors that lead to low-quality communication about adolescent sexting in Jewish and Arab societies in Israel. Participants included 427 Israeli parents (Jewish N = 242, 56.7%, Arab N = 185, 43.3%) who answered seven online questionnaires. Results revealed ethnic differences between Arab and Jewish parents with regard to the quality of parent-child communication about sexting. Arab parents tended more toward low-quality communication about sexting than did Jewish parents. Perceived severity of sexting and perceived susceptibility to sexting led to more low-quality communication by Arab than by Jewish parents. Mothers in both societies were better able to mediate sexting and displayed higher parental efficacy than did the fathers. These findings provide useful insights for therapists and parents into the link between parental factors and the quality of communication about sexting with adolescent children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Dolev-Cohen
- Educational Counseling Program, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Oranim Academic College of Education, Tivon, Israel
| | - Tsameret Ricon
- Educational Counseling Program, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Oranim Academic College of Education, Tivon, Israel
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Dream It, Do It? Associations between Pornography Use, Risky Sexual Behaviour, Sexual Preoccupation and Sexting Behaviours among Young Australian Adults. SEXES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/sexes2040034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
While sexting behaviours have attracted increasing research focus over the last decade as both normative and deviant forms of sexual activity, little attention has been paid to their potential associations with sexual preoccupation and heightened interest in sex. The current study sought to identify whether sexual preoccupation significantly predicts sending, receiving, and disseminating sexts, after controlling for pornography use and risky sexual behaviours. Young Australian adult participants (N = 654, 78.8% women) aged 18 to 34 (M = 19.78, SD = 1.66) completed an anonymous online self-report questionnaire regarding their engagement in sexting behaviours (sending, receiving, and dissemination), pornography use, risky sexual behaviours, and sexual preoccupation. Results showed that individuals with higher sexual preoccupation were more likely to engage in pornography use and risky sexual behaviours. Binary hierarchical logistic regressions revealed that sexual preoccupation predicted higher rates of sending and receiving sexts. However, sexual preoccupation did not significantly contribute to increased rates of sext dissemination. Our study illustrates the need to incorporate pornography viewing and sexting into the promotion of safe sexual behaviours in online and offline contexts, and the potential to utilise modern technology to negotiate safer sex practices.
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Bianchi D, Baiocco R, Lonigro A, Pompili S, Zammuto M, Di Tata D, Morelli M, Chirumbolo A, Di Norcia A, Cannoni E, Longobardi E, Laghi F. Love in Quarantine: Sexting, Stress, and Coping During the COVID-19 Lockdown. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2021; 20:465-478. [PMID: 34580599 PMCID: PMC8458047 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-021-00645-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated the relationships of pandemic-related stress and coping strategies with different kinds of sexting (i.e., experimental, risky, and emotional) during the COVID-19 lockdown in the Italian context. Methods A sample of 1929 emerging adults (Mage = 24.17, SDage = 2.75; 71.6% girls) completed an online survey about their sexting behaviors during the national lockdown in Italy. Data were gathered in April/May 2020, from 6th to 11th week of home confinement due to COVID-19 pandemic. Hierarchical regression and mediation analyses were performed. Results Pandemic-related stress directly predicted only risky and emotional sexting. Experimental and emotional sexting were positively predicted by social support, and negatively predicted by turning to religion. Risky and emotional sexting were positively predicted by avoidance, and negatively predicted by problem solving. Adaptive coping (i.e., social support) mediated the relationships from pandemic-related stress to both experimental and emotional sexting. Maladaptive coping (i.e., avoidance and problem solving) mediated the relationships from pandemic related-stress to risky and emotional sexting. Conclusions Sexting was a coping tool during COVID-19 lockdown, showing both adaptive and maladaptive facets. Policy Implications Findings suggest new directions for implementing programs of sexual education and safer Internet use targeted to young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Bianchi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonia Lonigro
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Pompili
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Zammuto
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Tata
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mara Morelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Anna Di Norcia
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Cannoni
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Emiddia Longobardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorenzo Laghi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Shaughnessy K, Braham J. Where’s the tech in sex research? A brief critique and call for research. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN SEXUALITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3138/cjhs.2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Internet and data-based technologies are ubiquitous in most societies around the world. People use online technologies (i.e., devices, software, platforms, applications, etc., that connect to the Internet through wired or wireless means) in almost all aspects of their daily lives, including sexuality. Yet, researchers have been slow to integrate online technologies in sexuality studies. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating research about online technology with research about human sexuality. We argue that researchers focused on (almost) all topics of human sexuality would benefit from considering online technologies in their studies. We describe how people’s online and in-person experiences do not exist in separate vacuums; rather, they influence and are influenced by one another in an ongoing and dynamic fashion. We propose three ways that sexuality researchers can integrate technology and technology-informed research in their future studies that address some of the opportunities and challenges: adding variables and constructs, using technology-focused theories, and collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justine Braham
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Bianchi D, Morelli M, Baiocco R, Cattelino E, Chirumbolo A. Patterns of love and sexting in teen dating relationships: The moderating role of conflicts. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2021; 2021:133-155. [PMID: 34109733 PMCID: PMC9292559 DOI: 10.1002/cad.20427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
According to the triangular love theory, this study investigated the roles of three components of love (i.e., passion, intimacy, commitment) and the moderating role of conflicts in predicting different forms of sexting (i.e., experimental, nonconsensual, under pressure) in teen dating relationships. Participants were 409 adolescents (Mage = 17.20, SDage = 1.61; 62.6% girls) who completed an online questionnaire. Three moderated regressions were performed. Conflicts positively predicted all forms of sexting. Passion positively predicted experimental sexting. Intimacy negatively predicted experimental and nonconsensual sexting, and positively predicted sexting under pressure. Three interaction effects emerged, pointing out the moderating role of conflicts. Passion positively predicted nonconsensual sexting in the presence of high conflicts, while this relationship became negative when conflicts were low. Commitment negatively predicted nonconsensual sexting and sexting under pressure in the presence of high conflicts, but these relationships were not significant when conflicts were low. Research and applicative implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Bianchi
- Department of Social & Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mara Morelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Social & Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Cattelino
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
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Van Ouytsel J, Walrave M, De Marez L, Vanhaelewyn B, Ponnet K. Sexting, pressured sexting and image-based sexual abuse among a weighted-sample of heterosexual and LGB-youth. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2020.106630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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21
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Morelli M, Urbini F, Bianchi D, Baiocco R, Cattelino E, Laghi F, Sorokowski P, Misiak M, Dziekan M, Hudson H, Marshall A, Nguyen TTT, Mark L, Kopecky K, Szotkowski R, Toplu Demirtaş E, Van Ouytsel J, Ponnet K, Walrave M, Zhu T, Chen Y, Zhao N, Liu X, Voiskounsky A, Bogacheva N, Ioannou M, Synnott J, Tzani-Pepelasi K, Balakrishnan V, Okumu M, Small E, Pavlova Nikolova S, Drouin M, Chirumbolo A. The Relationship between Dark Triad Personality Traits and Sexting Behaviors among Adolescents and Young Adults across 11 Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052526. [PMID: 33806314 PMCID: PMC7967332 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Sexting is an increasingly common phenomenon among adolescents and young adults. Some studies have investigated the role of personality traits in different sexting behaviors within mainstream personality taxonomies like Big Five and HEXACO. However, very few studies have investigated the role of maladaptive personality factors in sexting. Therefore, the present study investigated the relationship between Dark Triad Personality Traits and experimental (i.e., sharing own sexts), risky (i.e., sexting under substance use and with strangers), and aggravated sexting (i.e., non-consensual sexting and sexting under pressure) across 11 countries. Methods: An online survey was completed by 6093 participants (Mage = 20.35; SDage = 3.63) from 11 different countries which covered four continents (Europe, Asia, Africa, and America). Participants completed the Sexting Behaviors Questionnaire and the 12-item Dark Triad Dirty Dozen scale. Results: Hierarchical regression analyses showed that sharing own sexts was positively predicted by Machiavellianism and Narcissism. Both risky and aggravated sexting were positively predicted by Machiavellianism and Psychopathy. Conclusions: The present study provided empirical evidence that different sexting behaviors were predicted by Dark Triad Personality Traits, showing a relevant role of Machiavellianism in all kinds of investigated sexting behaviors. Research, clinical, and education implications for prevention programs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Morelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+39-06-4991-7677
| | - Flavio Urbini
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.U.); (A.C.)
| | - Dora Bianchi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.B.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.B.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Elena Cattelino
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Valle D’Aosta, 11100 Aosta, Italy;
| | - Fiorenzo Laghi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.B.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Piotr Sorokowski
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, 50-527 Wrocław, Poland; (P.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Michal Misiak
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, 50-527 Wrocław, Poland; (P.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Martyna Dziekan
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, Adam Mickiewicz University, 60-658 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Heather Hudson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, AR 72035, USA;
| | - Alexandra Marshall
- College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA;
| | - Thanh Truc T. Nguyen
- College of Education, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.T.T.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Lauren Mark
- College of Education, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.T.T.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Kamil Kopecky
- Centre for Prevention of Risky Virtual Communication, Palacky University Olomouc, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (K.K.); (R.S.)
| | - René Szotkowski
- Centre for Prevention of Risky Virtual Communication, Palacky University Olomouc, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (K.K.); (R.S.)
| | - Ezgi Toplu Demirtaş
- Psychological Counseling and Guidance, MEF University, Istanbul 34396, Turkey;
| | - Joris Van Ouytsel
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (J.V.O.); (M.W.)
- Hugh Downs School of Human Communication, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Sciences, imec-mict-Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Michel Walrave
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (J.V.O.); (M.W.)
| | - Tingshao Zhu
- Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100864, China; (T.Z.); (Y.C.); (N.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Ya Chen
- Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100864, China; (T.Z.); (Y.C.); (N.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Nan Zhao
- Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100864, China; (T.Z.); (Y.C.); (N.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100864, China; (T.Z.); (Y.C.); (N.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Alexander Voiskounsky
- Department of General Psychology, Lomonosow Moscow State University, 101000 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Nataliya Bogacheva
- Department of Pedagogy and Medical Psychology, Sechenov University, 101000 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Maria Ioannou
- Department of Psychology, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK; (M.I.); (J.S.); (K.T.-P.)
| | - John Synnott
- Department of Psychology, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK; (M.I.); (J.S.); (K.T.-P.)
| | - Kalliopi Tzani-Pepelasi
- Department of Psychology, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK; (M.I.); (J.S.); (K.T.-P.)
| | - Vimala Balakrishnan
- Department of Information System, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Moses Okumu
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
| | - Eusebius Small
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA;
| | - Silviya Pavlova Nikolova
- Department of Social Medicine and Healthcare Organization, Medical University-Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria;
| | - Michelle Drouin
- Department of Psychology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, USA;
| | - Antonio Chirumbolo
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.U.); (A.C.)
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Barroso R, Ramião E, Figueiredo P, Araújo AM. Abusive Sexting in Adolescence: Prevalence and Characteristics of Abusers and Victims. Front Psychol 2021; 12:610474. [PMID: 33716872 PMCID: PMC7943630 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.610474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexting has been defined as sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages, images, or photos to others through digital platforms, and can assume more consensual or more abusive and violent forms. This study aims to explore the prevalence of abusive sexting in Portuguese adolescents and the psychological characteristics of sexting abusers in terms of emotional and behavioral problems, potential markers of psychopathy, childhood trauma and maltreatment, and different forms of aggression. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 4,281 participants, aged 12-20 years (2,264 girls and 2,017 boys), of whom 204 (4.8%) engaged in abusive sexting behaviors and 182 (4.3%) self-identified as being a non-consensual sexting victim. Abusive sexting was more common among boys and middle adolescents, and abusive sexting victims were more likely to be children of single-parent families. Engaging in abusive sexting and being a victim of abusive sexting were also related to behavioral and emotional problems, callousness, experiences of neglect and abuse in childhood, and various forms of aggression. Implications for future research and intervention are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Barroso
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Ramião
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Figueiredo
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M. Araújo
- Department of Psychology and Education, Portucalense University, Porto, Portugal
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Rodríguez-Castro Y, Martínez-Román R, Alonso-Ruido P, Adá-Lameiras A, Carrera-Fernández MV. Intimate Partner Cyberstalking, Sexism, Pornography, and Sexting in Adolescents: New Challenges for Sex Education. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18042181. [PMID: 33672240 PMCID: PMC7926792 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Within the context of the widespread use of technologies by adolescents, the objectives of this study were to identify the perpetrators of intimate partner cyberstalking (IPCS) in adolescents; to analyze the relationship between IPCS and gender, age, sexting behaviors, pornography consumption, and ambivalent sexism; and to investigate the influence of the study variables as predictors of IPCS and determine their moderating role. Methods: Participants were 993 Spanish students of Secondary Education, 535 girls and 458 boys with mean age 15.75 (SD = 1.47). Of the total sample, 70.3% (n = 696) had or had had a partner. Results: Boys perform more sexting, consume more pornographic content, and have more hostile and benevolent sexist attitudes than girls. However, girls perpetrate more IPCS than boys. The results of the hierarchical multiple regression indicate that hostile sexism is a predictor of IPCS, as well as the combined effect of Gender × Pornography and Benevolent Sexism × Sexting. Conclusions: it is essential to implement sexual affective education programs in schools in which Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are incorporated so that boys and girls can experience their relationships, both offline and online, in an egalitarian and violence-free way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Rodríguez-Castro
- Faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain; (R.M.-R.); (M.V.C.-F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-988-387-130
| | - Rosana Martínez-Román
- Faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain; (R.M.-R.); (M.V.C.-F.)
| | - Patricia Alonso-Ruido
- Faculty of Education Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
| | - Alba Adá-Lameiras
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Law, Carlos III of Madrid, 28903 Madrid, Spain;
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Van Ouytsel J, Walrave M, De Marez L, Vanhaelewyn B, Ponnet K. A first investigation into gender minority adolescents' sexting experiences. J Adolesc 2020; 84:213-218. [PMID: 33007516 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2020.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender minority adolescents, such as transgender, gender nonconforming, gender diverse and non-binary youth, may face unique challenges with regard to online sexual communication. They may be especially vulnerable for sexting-related risks. The aim of this study is to explore the sexting experiences of gender minority youth among a school-based sample. METHODS This brief exploratory study reports on a survey that was conducted among 1293 respondents with an average age of 14.79 years old (SD = 1.97) in the Dutch-speaking area of Belgium, and compares engagement in sexting experiences between cisgender and gender minority youth. RESULTS The results of our exploratory study show that gender minority adolescents were more likely to have ever been pressured to send a sexting image. There were no significant differences with regard to receiving sexts, or receiving forwarded sexts. None of the gender minority youth reported that they had forwarded a sexting image from someone else, as opposed to 9.3% of cisgender youth who had forwarded a sext. CONCLUSIONS Despite the explorative nature of our study, the results suggest that gender minority youth may be at an increased risk to experience sexting-related pressure. Additional research is needed to investigate the sexting experiences of gender minority adolescents. Gender minority youth may benefit from education about safer sexting, and specifically ways to cope with sexting-related pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Van Ouytsel
- Department of Communication Studies, MIOS, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Michel Walrave
- Department of Communication Studies, MIOS, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Lieven De Marez
- Department of Communication Studies, IMEC-MICT-Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bart Vanhaelewyn
- Department of Communication Studies, IMEC-MICT-Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Studies, IMEC-MICT-Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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What are you sexting? Parental practices, sexting attitudes and behaviors among Italian adolescents. BMC Psychol 2020; 8:63. [PMID: 32539837 PMCID: PMC7296734 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-020-00425-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexting has recently emerged as a public health and social issue. The present study had two aims: a) to preliminarily test adolescent gender differences on parental practices regarding adolescent online life, parental monitoring, adolescent attitude towards sexting and sexting behaviors; b) to separately test for male and female adolescents a conceptual model in which sexting behaviors are explained by the parental practices and monitoring, with the mediation of adolescent negative attitude towards sexting. METHODS Direct and indirect links between the variables in the model were investigated. The study was carried out with 541 participants. Participants were Italian adolescents (60% males; 40% females) aged 14 to 19 years (Mage = 16,19 years, SDage = 1,31). RESULTS Results suggested that females sent more multimedia sexts, had a higher perception of risk associated with sexting and reported higher scores for both parental practices regarding adolescent online life and parental monitoring. Rules on Contents, Parental Knowledge, Adolescent Disclosure, and Parental Control resulted to be linked to both sexting attitudes and behaviors for male and female adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Findings emphasize the important role that parents play in shaping attitudes and behaviors of both daughters and sons during adolescence.
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