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Dodaj A, Sesar K, Prijatelj K, Mandić S, Bursać SR. Risk Factors for Non-Consensual Sexting Among Adolescents and Emerging Adults: An Extension of the Routine Activity Theory Perspective. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:2583-2596. [PMID: 38862864 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02903-8] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Adolescence and emerging adulthood are developmental phases in which the exploration of one's own sexuality takes on a high priority, which can increase the risk of risky sexual behavior. Due to technological advances, (non-consensual) sexting has increased among young people and has become an integral part of their sexual socialization. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to examine non-consensual sexting (both victimization and perpetration) among adolescents and emerging adults and to identify potential risk factors associated with non-consensual sexting using routine activity theory. The sample consisted of a total of 3514 adolescents aged 10-17 years (43% males; 57% females) and 3674 emerging adults aged 18-25 years (23% males; 77% females) from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. The results showed that both male adolescents and emerging adults were at higher risk for experiencing non-consensual sexting victimization. Personal factors such as gender, age, social bond, and routine cell phone activity predicted the risk of becoming a victim of non-consensual sexting in adolescents. For emerging adults, gender, social connection to friends, and routine cell phone use predicted the risk of becoming a victim of non-consensual sexting. Relationship status and routine cell phone activity predicted the forwarding of other sexts for both age groups. According to international scientific research and the findings of this particular study, we can conclude that the study of personal factors and routine variables helps understand non-consensual sexting among youth but is also essential in planning educational resources and preventive activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arta Dodaj
- Department of Psychology, University of Zadar, Ulica Mihovila Pavlinovića 1, 23 000, Zadar, Croatia.
| | - Kristina Sesar
- Department of Psychology, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Krešimir Prijatelj
- Department of Psychology, University of Zadar, Ulica Mihovila Pavlinovića 1, 23 000, Zadar, Croatia
| | - Sabina Mandić
- Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sanja Radić Bursać
- Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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2
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Howard D, Jarman HK, Clancy EM, Renner HM, Smith R, Rowland B, Toumbourou JW, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M, Klettke B. Sexting Among Australian Adolescents: Risk and Protective Factors. J Youth Adolesc 2023:10.1007/s10964-023-01827-1. [PMID: 37481506 PMCID: PMC10372109 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-023-01827-1] [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: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Although consensual sending of sexts between adolescents is considered developmentally appropriate, it may also entail a range of negative consequences. Current sexting research lacks a comprehensive theoretical framework identifying a range of risk and protective factors underpinning adolescent consensual sending of sexts across individual, interpersonal, and distal levels. Further, there is a lack of systematic evaluation of how the importance of these factors may vary across adolescent age. This study investigated the utility of the Social Development Model to predict a range of risk and protective factors across individual, family, peer, school, and community-level factors. The sample included 1302 teenagers from Victoria, Australia (Mage = 14.54, SD = 1.14, 50.8% girls). Results indicated that 146 (11.7%) participants sent a sext (76 boys and 70 girls). Logistic regression analyses revealed that the Social Development Model accounted for 45.8% of variance in sexting, with greater likelihood of sending sexts being associated with older age, prior sexual activity, school sector, physical activity, lifetime substance use, greater depressive symptoms, sensation seeking, and perceived substance availability in the community. Multigroup analyses revealed that lifetime substance use was associated with a greater likelihood of sending sexts among younger teens. Among older adolescents, adaptive coping was associated with reduced engagement in sexting, while higher parental overcontrol and family conflict increased the odds of sending sexts. Overall, sexting is associated with a range of modifiable factors potentially amenable to intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Howard
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia.
| | - Hannah K Jarman
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Elizabeth M Clancy
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Heidi M Renner
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Rachel Smith
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bosco Rowland
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
- Monash University, Eastern Health Clinical School & Monash Addiction Research Centre, Richmond, VIC, Australia
| | - John W Toumbourou
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Matthew Fuller-Tyszkiewicz
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Bianca Klettke
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
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Maes C, Van Ouytsel J, Vandenbosch L. Victim Blaming and Non-Consensual Forwarding of Sexts Among Late Adolescents and Young Adults. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:1767-1783. [PMID: 36745284 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02537-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study explored late adolescents' and young adults' willingness to engage in non-consensual forwarding of sexts (NCFS) and its relation to victim blaming beliefs toward female and male victims. The study further examined important determinants in the development of victim blaming beliefs (e.g., perceived victim blaming of peers). An online survey was conducted among 1343 Belgian respondents of which 78.4% were female (Mage = 21.62 years, SD = 3.57 years). Structural equation modeling showed that victim blaming beliefs (i.e., responsibility-based and characteristic-based) were related to willingness to engage in NCFS, which was related to NCFS, regardless of the victim's sex. Further, victim blaming beliefs in the context of NCFS were shaped by parents' and peers' perceived victim blaming, and respondents' high levels of narcissism and low levels of empathy. Surprisingly, pornography use was negatively correlated with characteristic-based victim blaming beliefs. Additionally, males and late adolescents appeared to hold more victim blaming beliefs toward female and male victims in comparison with females and young adults. Lastly, the willingness to engage in NCFS was more strongly related to responsibility-based victim blaming (not characteristic-based victim blaming) if the victim was male. The findings demonstrate how victim blaming encourages NCFS and emphasize that educational programs should avoid victim-focused strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelly Maes
- School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Joris Van Ouytsel
- Hugh Downs School of Human Communication, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Laura Vandenbosch
- School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
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Ojeda M, Dodaj A, Sesar K, Del Rey R. “Some voluntarily and some under pressure”: Conceptualization, reasons, attitudes, and consequences of sexting among adolescents. TELEMATICS AND INFORMATICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tele.2022.101891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Bhogal MS, Tudor C, Hira S. The Role of Mating-relevant Factors in the Perpetration of Digital Dating Abuse. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP13707-NP13728. [PMID: 33845680 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211004103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has explored offline intimate partner violence from an evolutionary perspective, primarily focusing on the role of individual differences in perpetration and victimization. However, a current form of intimate partner violence is digital dating abuse, which involves abuse toward a romantic partner, occuring online through the use of electronic communication technology. This form of abuse differs from offline abuse, in that physical proximity is not required. Although research has focused on the effects digital dating abuse has on victims, little research has focused on the perpetration of digital dating abuse. This is important as research focused on perpetration can inform a wide range of initiatives geared toward understanding the factors which drive this behavior. Recent research has focused on evolutionary mating-relevant factors that drive the perpetration of digital dating abuse. Here, we extended and replicated previous work by reporting two studies (study 1, n = 114; study 2, n = 162) which explored the roles of mate value discrepancy, intrasexual competition, and relationship-contingent self-esteem in the perpetration of digital dating abuse. We found that mate value discrepancy (studies 1 and 2) and intrasexual competition (study 2) positively predicted the perpetration of digital dating abuse. To our knowledge, this article is the first to provide support that those who report high intrasexual competition, engage in greater levels of digital dating abuse, thus furthering theoretical advancements in this field by showing digital dating abuse is a mate retention tactic. Our findings further our understanding of online behavior in romantic relationships through an evolutionary psychological lens.
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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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Van Ouytsel J, Lu Y, Temple JR. An Exploratory Study of Online Early Sexual Initiation through Pressured and Unwanted Sexting. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:742-748. [PMID: 34410166 PMCID: PMC8857311 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1963650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sexting in young adolescents may be an online form of early sexual debut. We assess the link between potentially problematic sexting (i.e., pressured and receiving unwanted sexts) with known risky behaviors (i.e., substance use and early sexual behavior) among middle school students aged 12 and under. The ethnically diverse sample consisted of 1131 youth (53% female) enrolled in the 7th grade in one of 24 schools in southeast Texas. Participants self-identified as 31% Hispanic, 9% White, 24% Black, 19% Asian, 11% other, and 6% unknown. Participants self-reported pressured sexting, receiving unwanted sexts, history of sexual activity, and substance use. Two-point-one percent of adolescents reported sending a sext under pressure and 13.7% reported having received an unwanted sexting image. Participants with a history of sexual intercourse, relative to their non-sexually experienced counterparts, reported higher rates of being pressured into sexting and receiving unwanted sexts. Further, a portion of youth who experienced pressured or unwanted sexting also reported the use of various substances, relative to their non-sexting counterparts. Our study underscores the need for comprehensive sex education to begin at an early age and include age-appropriate information on sexting, digital citizenship, relationships, and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yu Lu
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma
| | - Jeff R Temple
- Center for Violence Prevention, University of Texas Medical Branch
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Schulbasierte Prävention der missbräuchlichen Verbreitung freizügiger Fotos im Internet: Konzeption und Evaluation des SPuR-Programms. Prax Kinderpsychol Kinderpsychiatr 2022; 71:362-383. [DOI: 10.13109/prkk.2022.71.4.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Abstract
Despite over 10 years of research, we still know very little about people’s sexting behaviours and experiences. Our limited and, at times, conflicting knowledge about sexting is due to re-searchers’ use of inconsistent conceptual definitions of sexting, dubious measurement practices, and atheoretical research designs. In this article, we provide an overview of the history of sex-ting research and describe how researchers have contributed to the ‘moral panic’ narrative that continues to surround popular media discourse about sexting. We identify four key problems that still plague sexting research today: (1) imprudent focus on the medium, (2) inconsistent conceptual definitions, (3) poor measurement practices, and (4) a lack of theoretical frameworks. We describe and expand on solutions to address each of these problems. In particular, we focus on the need to shift empirical attention away from sexting and towards the behavioural domain of technology-mediated sexual interaction. We believe that the implementation of these solu-tions will lead to valid and sustainable knowledge development on technology-mediated sexual interactions, including sexting.
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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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Burén J, Holmqvist Gattario K, Lunde C. What Do Peers Think About Sexting? Adolescents’ Views of the Norms Guiding Sexting Behavior. JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENT RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/07435584211014837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the content of injunctive peer norms (i.e., perceived peer approval) of sexting among Swedish adolescents. Written answers from 808 adolescents ( Mage = 14.22) to an open-ended question about peers’ views of sexting were analyzed qualitatively using content analysis. Eight categories were distinguished for when and why sexting is acceptable or not in the peer group. A substantial share of adolescents believed their peers approve of sexting, especially if sexting occurs within trusted relationships and when all parties have consented. A large share of adolescents described that peers were non-accepting of sexting, emphasizing that it can be spread to others. The participants also suggested that sexting is seen as a gendered phenomenon surrounded by sexual double standards, with girls at more risk of negative consequences. Some participants emphasized the peer view that adolescents sext to seek attention, and some emphasized that sexting is viewed as an enjoyable activity. Several of these categories’ likelihood to be mentioned was related to the adolescents’ age, gender, and prior experience of sexting. We concluded that adolescents might have a hard time navigating the social context of sexting, given the conflicting and gendered messages from peers.
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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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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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Fix RL, Assini-Meytin LC, Harris AJ, Letourneau EJ. Caregivers' Perceptions and Responses to a New Norm: The Missing Link in Addressing Adolescent Sexting Behaviors in the U.S. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:575-588. [PMID: 32337659 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01704-z] [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: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Youth sharing of self- or peer-produced sexual content via electronic communications, dubbed by the media as "sexting" (i.e., sexting behaviors), has generated concern among a wide variety of adult stakeholders in the U.S. Experts recognize the need to integrate perspectives and knowledge about adolescents' sexting behaviors from individuals who interact with adolescents (e.g., their caregivers) to inform the development of prevention policy and practice. The present study fills this gap by interviewing 10 separate groups of caregivers in three different states, with the sole focus on adolescent sexting behaviors. Results indicated seven themes: (1) characteristics of adolescent sexting behaviors, (2) influences on sexting behaviors, (3) communication about sexting behaviors, (4) gender and sexting behaviors, (5) sociohistorical conditions and sexting behaviors, (6) consequences of sexting behaviors, and (7) ways to address sexting behaviors; multiple themes emerged within each of the seven parent codes. Findings inform the need to integrate adolescent sexting behaviors into comprehensive sexual education curricula and to develop educational content on adolescent sexting behaviors for adolescents and caregivers in online and printable handout formats. Clearly defining sexting and norms around sexting are of particular importance in such educational materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Fix
- Department of Mental Health, School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 415 N. Washington Street, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA.
| | - Luciana C Assini-Meytin
- Department of Mental Health, School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 415 N. Washington Street, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Andrew J Harris
- School of Criminology and Justice Studies, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Letourneau
- Department of Mental Health, School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 415 N. Washington Street, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
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The risk of sexual-erotic online behavior in adolescents – Which personality factors predict sexting and grooming victimization? COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2020.106569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Adolescents' Sexy Self-Presentation on Instagram: An Investigation of Their Posting Behavior Using a Prototype Willingness Model Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17218106. [PMID: 33153104 PMCID: PMC7663027 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Some adolescents use social media platforms, such as Instagram, for sexualized self-presentation, which includes posting images in which someone is scarcely dressed, has a sexy gaze or in which sexual willingness is suggested. These behaviors could be a first step towards sexting. Given that adolescents are highly influenced by peer perceptions, this study uses the prototype willingness model to assess how teenagers' perceptions of others could influence their posting behaviors. The study was conducted among 2626 students (n = 1530; 58.4% girls) between the ages of 14 and 21 (M = 16.14; SD = 1.02) in 10 secondary schools in the Dutch-speaking community in Belgium. The results show that older adolescents and girls were more likely to post images of themselves on Instagram. The models showed that peer norms and willingness and attitudes were significantly associated with posting intention. The perceived norms of adolescents' parents were not significantly related to the behaviors. There were also significant associations between perceived similarity, prototype favorability and the willingness to engage in sexualized self-presentation on Instagram. The implications for education and practice are discussed.
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17
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Van Ouytsel J, Ponnet K, Walrave M. Cyber Dating Abuse: Investigating Digital Monitoring Behaviors Among Adolescents From a Social Learning Perspective. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2020; 35:5157-5178. [PMID: 29294845 DOI: 10.1177/0886260517719538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Just as with other forms of abuse such as bullying, dating violence is no longer limited to physical spaces. Several forms of dating violence can also be perpetrated by means of technology. Few studies have used a theoretical perspective to investigate cyber dating abuse. This study addresses this gap in the literature by focusing on the perpetration of digital monitoring behaviors-a form of cyber dating abuse-from a social learning perspective. We investigate the extent to which perceived social norms about cyber dating abuse, witnessing controlling behaviors among parents, and endorsing gender stereotypes are linked with adolescents' engagement in digital monitoring behaviors. The study draws on data from 466 secondary school students (71.0% girls, n = 331) aged between 16 and 22 years (M = 17.99 years, SD = 0.92) in Flanders, Belgium, who were in a romantic relationship. Linear regression analysis indicates that being female, being older, the perceived social norms of peers, the endorsement of gender stereotypes, and having observed intrusive controlling behaviors by the father are significantly and positively related to adolescents' perpetration of digital monitoring behaviors. The findings have implications for practice and underscore the need for prevention efforts to address and lower the influence of these perceived social norms. Further implications include the need for prevention efforts to focus on diminishing the impact of gender stereotypical attitudes and the influence of witnessing controlling behaviors within the family context on cyber dating abuse perpetration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Koen Ponnet
- University of Antwerp, Belgium
- Ghent University, Belgium
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18
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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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19
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Ehrenreich SE, Beron KJ, Burnell K, Meter DJ, Underwood MK. How Adolescents Use Text Messaging Through their High School Years. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2020; 30:521-540. [PMID: 31868974 PMCID: PMC8669751 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Co-construction theory suggests adolescents use digital communication to address developmental challenges. For a sample of 214 ethnically diverse adolescents, this research used direct observation to investigate the frequency, content, and timing of texting with parents, peers, and romantic partners through grades 9-12. Analyses showed that texting frequency follows a curvilinear trajectory, peaking in eleventh grade. Adolescents discussed a range of topics, predominantly with peers. Communication with parents was less frequent, but consistent over time. Approximately 45-65% of adolescents communicated with romantic partners, texting heavily and about topics similar to those discussed with peers. Texting may help adolescents navigate key developmental challenges of adolescence-the establishment of autonomy, intimate peer relationships, romantic relationships, and self-identity.
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20
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Maheux AJ, Evans R, Widman L, Nesi J, Prinstein MJ, Choukas-Bradley S. Popular peer norms and adolescent sexting behavior. J Adolesc 2019; 78:62-66. [PMID: 31841872 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents misperceive and are heavily influenced by the behavior of their popular peers, yet research has not yet investigated this phenomenon for a relatively new and potentially risky behavior: adolescent sexting. The present study investigates rates of sexting among popular and non-popular adolescents and the association between adolescents' perceptions of popular peers' sexting behavior and their own sexting behavior. METHODS A school-based sample of 626 adolescents from a rural high school in the Southeastern U.S. (Mage = 17.4, 53.5% female) completed surveys indicating whether they had sent a sext in the past year. Participants also reported on perceptions of popular peers' sexting behavior and completed sociometric nominations of peer status. RESULTS While 87.4% of adolescents believed the typical popular boy or girl in their class had sent a sext in the past year, only 62.5% of popular adolescents had actually sent a sext. There was no significant difference between rates of sexting among popular and non-popular (54.8%) adolescents. After adjusting for gender and sexual activity status, adolescents who believed that the typical popular peer sent a sext were over ten times more likely to have also sexted in the past year. Among adolescents who believed their popular peers had not sexted, girls were more likely than boys to have sexted themselves; however, this gender difference disappeared among adolescents who believed their popular peers had sexted. CONCLUSIONS These results underscore the importance of peer status and perceptions of peer norms in adolescents' sexting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne J Maheux
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Psychology, 210 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| | - Reina Evans
- North Carolina State University, Department of Psychology, 640 Poe Hall, Campus Box 7650, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7650, USA
| | - Laura Widman
- North Carolina State University, Department of Psychology, 640 Poe Hall, Campus Box 7650, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7650, USA
| | - Jacqueline Nesi
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, 222 Richmond St., Providence, RI, 02903, USA; Bradley/Hasbro Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital, 1 Hoppin St., Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Mitchell J Prinstein
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Psychology, 235 E. Cameron Ave, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Sophia Choukas-Bradley
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Psychology, 210 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
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21
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Shafer A. Advancing Research on Adolescent Sexting. J Adolesc Health 2019; 65:711-712. [PMID: 31753293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2019.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Autumn Shafer
- School of Journalism and Communication, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
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22
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Brodie ZP, Wilson C, Scott GG. Sextual Intercourse: Considering Social-Cognitive Predictors and Subsequent Outcomes of Sexting Behavior in Adulthood. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:2367-2379. [PMID: 31502070 PMCID: PMC6757024 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01497-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify specific social-cognitive factors that may influence the likelihood of engaging in sexting, and potential positive and negative outcomes of such behaviors, in adults. We asked 244 adult participants (64.5% women) to complete a set of online measures reflecting sexting engagement, social-cognitive factors (definitions, differential association, differential reinforcement, and imitation), and outcomes of sexting behavior (risky sexual behavior appraisal, sexual satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction). Results showed that 77.6% of our sample had sexted. Sexting in the context of a romantic relationship was predicted by differential reinforcement and friend imitation, while positive definitions of sexting alone predicted sexting someone outside the context of a romantic relationship. This indicates that motivations for sexting engagement may be context specific in adulthood. Those who had sexted demonstrated significantly higher sexual satisfaction than those who had never sexted. However, sexting outside of a romantic relationship predicted reduced perceived risk and heightened perceived benefit of engaging in real-life risky sexual behaviors. This suggests there may be both positive and negative implications of sexting engagement in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zara P Brodie
- School of Media, Culture, & Society, University of the West of Scotland, Room L248, Elles Building East, Glasgow, Scotland, PA1 2BE, UK.
| | - Claire Wilson
- School of Media, Culture, & Society, University of the West of Scotland, Room L248, Elles Building East, Glasgow, Scotland, PA1 2BE, UK
| | - Graham G Scott
- School of Media, Culture, & Society, University of the West of Scotland, Room L248, Elles Building East, Glasgow, Scotland, PA1 2BE, UK
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23
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Beckmeyer JJ, Herbenick D, Fu TCJ, Dodge B, Reece M, Fortenberry JD. Characteristics of Adolescent Sexting: Results from the 2015 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2019; 45:767-780. [PMID: 31050609 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2019.1613463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Using data from 78 sexting-experienced adolescents from the 2015 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, we describe sexting frequency, sexting partners, sexual relationships with such partners, and characteristics associated with sexting. Most (59.2%) respondents sexted at most monthly, usually with romantic partners (62.0%). About 41% of sexting-experienced adolescents did not usually have sexual relationships with sexting partners, 36.6% usually sexted after starting a sexual relationship, and 16.8% reported that their sexting typically preceded sexual relationships. Younger adolescents sexted more frequently. Those without vaginal sex/anal sex experience, or prior romantic experience, were more likely to have sexted a non-romantic/sexual partner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon J Beckmeyer
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington , Bloomington , IN , USA
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA
| | - Debby Herbenick
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington , Bloomington , IN , USA
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA
| | - Tsung-Chieh Jane Fu
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA
| | - Brian Dodge
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington , Bloomington , IN , USA
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA
| | - Michael Reece
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington , Bloomington , IN , USA
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA
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Van Ouytsel J, Madigan S, Ponnet K, Walrave M, Temple JR. Adolescent Sexting: Myths, Facts, and Advice. NASN Sch Nurse 2019; 34:345-350. [PMID: 31018758 DOI: 10.1177/1942602x19843113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent sexting remains an important public health issue because of the potential for psychosocial and legal consequences. This article briefly reviews the current state of the science of adolescent sexting research. It serves as an up-to-date and data-driven resource to school nurses and school staff to help augment understanding and facilitate discussion regarding teen sexting. The review is structured along popular myths about sexting.
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25
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Van Ouytsel J, Lu Y, Ponnet K, Walrave M, Temple JR. Longitudinal associations between sexting, cyberbullying, and bullying among adolescents: Cross-lagged panel analysis. J Adolesc 2019; 73:36-41. [PMID: 30954854 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While adolescent sexting, or the sending of sexually explicit images, has been cross-sectionally associated with bullying and cyberbullying, there is a lack of longitudinal studies in this area. To address this gap in the literature, we examined the longitudinal link between sexting and 1) traditional, in-person, bullying victimization and 2) cyberbullying victimization. METHODS We used data from a longitudinal study of ethnically diverse adolescents recruited from multiple public high schools in southeast Texas. Three waves of data were used (T2, T3 and T4). Cross-lagged panel analysis was performed in Mplus to analyze the data. RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS Cross-lagged panel analyses identified autoregressive effects for all three variables, and cross-lagged effects for cyberbullying. Sexting was associated with subsequent cyberbullying victimization across all time points, and T3 cyberbullying victimization was associated with engagement in sexting one year later. Furthermore, T2 cyberbullying victimization indirectly associated with T4 sexting via T3 cyberbullying victimization. For traditional bullying, a cross-lagged effect was found between T3 sexting and T4 offline bullying victimization. Although T2 sexting did not directly link to subsequent traditional bullying victimization, a significant mediation effect was identified such that T3 sexting mediated the effects of T2 sexting on T4 traditional bullying victimization. Results show that sexting adolescents may be at risk for (cyber)bullying victimization and highlight the need to address both sexting and bullying in prevention and intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Van Ouytsel
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Yu Lu
- Department of Ob/Gyn, UTMB Health, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555-0587, USA
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Studies, IMEC-MICT Ghent University, Korte Meer 11, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michel Walrave
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jeff R Temple
- Department of Ob/Gyn, UTMB Health, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555-0587, USA
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Handschuh C, La Cross A, Smaldone A. Is Sexting Associated with Sexual Behaviors During Adolescence? A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis. J Midwifery Womens Health 2018; 64:88-97. [PMID: 30521135 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A growing body of research has addressed adolescent use of mobile devices to exchange sexually explicit images and messages (sexting). Although there are legal consequences in some states for sexting among adolescents, research findings have also demonstrated associations between sexting and sexual activity. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize research examining the association between adolescent sexting and sexual activity. METHODS Five databases (CINAHL, Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Scopus) were searched for studies measuring adolescent sexting and sexual behaviors. Studies were appraised for quality using a modified Downs and Black scale. Studies reporting frequencies or odds ratios were eligible for inclusion in random effects meta-analytic models. RESULTS Of 669 articles retrieved, 9 studies met inclusion criteria for systematic review; of these, 6 were included in meta-analysis. After pooling data from 9676 adolescents, the odds of reporting sexual activity were found to be 6.3 times higher (95% CI, 4.9-8.1; Q = 14.3; I2 = 65.1) for adolescents who sent sexts compared with those who did not. DISCUSSION These data suggest that adolescents who send sexually explicit text messages are more likely to report sexual activity than adolescents who do not. Midwives are well poised to integrate a discussion of sexting into sexual and reproductive health counseling with adolescent and young adult patients.
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Speno AG, Aubrey JS. Adolescent Sexting: The Roles of Self-Objectification and Internalization of Media Ideals. PSYCHOLOGY OF WOMEN QUARTERLY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0361684318809383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We examined adolescent sexting using objectification theory as a framework. We hypothesized that sexting is a manifestation of trait self-objectification and the internalization of gender-specific media ideals about attractiveness. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 201 Midwestern adolescents, 14–17 years old. We tested a three-stage path model, which differed for female and male adolescents. For female adolescents, self-objectification was positively associated with favorable attitudes about sexting, which further predicted two types of intentions to engage in sexting: sexting when there is trust in the sexting partner (security-based intentions) and sexting that is spurred by situational cues. Although there was a serial mediation effect of self-objectification on sexting behaviors through sexting attitudes and total sexting intentions, only the indirect effect of sexting attitudes on behaviors through security-based intentions was individually significant. For male adolescents, internalization of media ideals was positively associated with sexting attitudes, which further predicted the two types of sexting intentions. Similar to female adolescents, there was a serial mediation effect of internalization of media ideals on sexting behaviors through sexting attitudes and total sexting intentions; however, only security-based sexting intentions predicted sexting behaviors. Our results have implications regarding how to conceptualize adolescent sexting and how researchers, parents, and educators may help teenage youth to establish healthy sexting attitudes and behaviors. Additional online materials for this article are available to PWQ subscribers on PWQ’s website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/0361684318809383
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashton Gerding Speno
- Department of Mass Communications, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, USA
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28
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Espelage DL, Davis JP, Basile KC, Rostad WL, Leemis RW. Alcohol, Prescription Drug Misuse, Sexual Violence, and Dating Violence Among High School Youth. J Adolesc Health 2018; 63:601-607. [PMID: 30172675 PMCID: PMC6200598 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sexual violence (SV), teen dating violence (TDV), and substance use are significant public health concerns among U.S. adolescents. This study examined whether latent classes of baseline alcohol and prescription drug misuse longitudinally predict SV and TDV victimization and perpetration (i.e., verbal,relational, physical/threatening, and sexual) 1 year later. METHODS Students from six Midwestern high schools (n = 1,875; grades 9-11) completed surveys across two consecutive spring semesters. Latent class analysis was used to identify classes of individuals according to four substance use variables. A latent class regression and a manual three-step auxiliary approach were used to assess concurrent and distal relationships between identified classes and SV and TDV victimization and perpetration. RESULTS Three classes of substance use were identified: low/no use (41% of sample), alcohol only use (45%), and alcohol and prescription drug misuse (APD) (14%). Youth in the APD class experienced greater SV and TDV victimization and perpetration than the alcohol only class at baseline. At Time 2 (one year later), youth in the baseline APD class experienced significantly higher SV and TDV victimization and perpetration outcomes than youth in the alcohol only class with the exception of sexual and physical TDV perpetration. CONCLUSIONS The misuse of both alcohol and prescription drugs emerged as a significant risk factor for later SV and TDV among adolescents. As such, it would be beneficial if future research continued to assess the nature of these associations and incorporate prescription drug use and misuse into heath education,substance use, and violence prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy L. Espelage
- University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida,Address correspondence to: Dorothy L. Espelage, Ph.D., University of Florida, 945 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611. (D.L. Espelage)
| | | | - Kathleen C. Basile
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Whitney L. Rostad
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ruth W. Leemis
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Atlanta, Georgia
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29
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Van Ouytsel J, Walrave M, Lu Y, Temple JR, Ponnet K. The Associations between Substance Use, Sexual Behavior, Deviant Behaviors and Adolescents' Engagement in Sexting: Does Relationship Context Matter? J Youth Adolesc 2018; 47:2353-2370. [PMID: 30073509 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-018-0903-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
While prior research has identified multiple associations between engagement in sexting and risky behaviors, most existing studies do not take into account the contexts in which sexting occurs. The present study extends prior research by examining whether the associations between adolescents' sexting behavior and engagement in substance use, sexual behaviors, and deviant behaviors differ depending on the relational context (within or outside of a romantic relationship) in which young people engage in sexting. Results from a survey of 1187 secondary school students (61.3% girls, n = 728) between 16 and 22 years old (M = 17.82 years; SD = 0.88) revealed that sexting with a romantic partner is not a significant marker of engagement in risk behaviors. However, single youth who engage in sexting outside of a romantic relationship are more likely to report substance use, relative to their non-sexting counterparts. These findings underscore the need to use more nuanced measures to investigate sexting and for sexual education initiatives to integrate messages about substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Van Ouytsel
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, Antwerp, 2000, Belgium.
| | - Michel Walrave
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, Antwerp, 2000, Belgium
| | - Yu Lu
- Department of Ob/Gyn, UTMB Health, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555-0587, USA
| | - Jeff R Temple
- Department of Ob/Gyn, UTMB Health, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555-0587, USA
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Studies, IMEC-MICT-Ghent University, Korte Meer 11, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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Alonso-Ruido P, Rodríguez-Castro Y, Lameiras-Fernández M, Martínez-Román R. El Sexting a través del discurso de adolescentes españoles. SAUDE E SOCIEDADE 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/s0104-12902018171835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumen El objetivo de esta investigación fue indagar en las prácticas de sexting en un grupo de adolescentes españoles y contribuir así a su mejor comprensión a través de una investigación novedosa en España. Se pretende descubrir los conocimientos que los/las adolescentes tienen sobre el fenómeno del sexting y averiguar en sus comportamientos y motivaciones hacia el sexting, revelando si perciben consecuencias de este tipo de conducta. A través de la aproximación cualitativa se realizaron ocho focus group, conformados por 89 adolescentes, que tenían entre 14 y 18 años. Entre los resultados se destacan el desconocimiento del concepto de sexting, llegando incluso a confundirlo con el acoso y el chantaje. Aunque solo un quinto de los y las participantes reconoce practicar sexting, admiten que es una práctica muy frecuente entre la gente de sus edades, especialmente entre las chicas. Los motivos que aluden para justificar su participación en comportamientos de sexting son fundamentalmente de carácter sexual, mientras que señalan que la gente de sus edades sextea por diversión, aburrimiento o por estar de moda. Asimismo, reconocen que hay ciertos riesgos derivados de las conductas de sexting, que afectan más negativamente a las chicas. Además, la gran parte de los/las jóvenes son conocedores de situaciones entre sus iguales de coacciones y chantajes para enviar contenido erótico-sexual, así como de otras realidades como el ciberacoso y el ciberstalking.
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Alonso Ruido P, Rodríguez Castro Y, Lameiras Fernández M, Martínez Román R. Las motivaciones hacia el Sexting de los y las adolescentes gallegos/as. REVISTA DE ESTUDIOS E INVESTIGACIÓN EN PSICOLOGÍA Y EDUCACIÓN 2017. [DOI: 10.17979/reipe.2017.0.13.2280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
El objetivo de esta investigación es evaluar las motivaciones de los/as adolescentes para llevar a cabo comportamientos de Sexting; así como, analizar su percepción sobre los motivos más frecuentes que la gente de su edad alude para sextear, analizando las diferencias según el género y la localización. Participaron un total de 1286 estudiantes de la Provincia de Ourense, con una media de edad de 15.63 (DT: 1.35). Los resultados apuntan motivos muy diversos y variados, identificando a los chicos como más sexters en relación al envío de textos erótico sexuales.
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