Sexting Behavior Research Articles

Sexting: A Digital Gateway to Understanding Risk Propensity and Alexithymic Traits

Aim: The current study explores the patterns of sexting behaviour among individuals actively using online dating apps, with a focus on whether sexting can predict Alexithymic traits and risk-taking behaviours, while also delving deeper into the relationship between the different variables. Methods: This quantitative study employs convenience sampling to recruit 194 individuals, aged 18-25, who are active users of online dating apps across Chennai. The variables were quantified using standardised measures which include; Sexting Behaviours Scale (SBS), The Risky, Impulsive, & Self-destructive behaviour Questionnaire (RISQ), and Toronto Alexithymia Scale Questionnaire (TAS - 20) . The data obtained were then subject to correlation analyses using SPSS software. Results: The results of the study highlight significant relationships between sexting, alexithymia and risk taking behaviours. Findings show that individuals with high levels of alexithymia are much more likely to partake in sexting and the other array of risk taking behaviours as a form of coping mechanism. These results underscore the role of emotional dysregulation in driving risk - taking tendencies, providing us with valuable insights into the psychological factors influencing the behaviors. Conclusion: The findings of the study delve into the complex relationship between young adults’ risk taking behaviors, alexithymia and sexting behavior, with a focus on the domain of online dating. They contribute to the growing body of literature by emphasizing the psychological and behavioral implications of sexting in the digital age, thereby paving the way for developing targeted interventions to mitigate these risks.

Attitudes toward Sexting, Peer Pressure and Sexting among Adolescents

Objective – This study examines the correlation between demographic characteristics (age and gender), attitudes toward sexting, and peer pressure and sexting behavior among adolescents.Materials and Methods – The current study was conducted among 359 adolescents ages 15-17 in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with data collected again one year after baseline. Participants completed questionnaires on demographic data, sexting behavior, attitudes toward sexting, and peer pressure.Results – Descriptive analyses showed that although adolescents have negative attitudes toward sexting, they do participate in sexting, reporting more receiving (62.95 % –64.06 %) than sending (30.91 % – 32.31 %) and posting (8.91 % – 8.63 %) sexts. Regression analysis revealed that age, gender, attitudes toward sexting and the influence of peer pressure in the fields of risky behavior and parental relationships are significant predictors of various types of sexting. Attitudes toward sexting and peer pressure to engage in risky behavior were also a predictor of sexting behavior one year later. Conclusion – The findings highlight the importance of addressing attitudes toward sexting and peer pressure in future preventive interventions related to sexting.

Examining Relations Between Sexualizing Media Exposure and Sexting Attitudes and Behaviors among U.S. Adolescents.

Based on social cognitive processes (Bandura, 2009), sexualizing media likely provide adolescents with credible role models for their own sexualized self-presentation in other mediated contexts, such as sexting. A survey of 6,093 US adolescents was conducted (Mage = 15.27 years, SD = 1.37; 69.1% cisgender girls; 26.8% cisgender boys, 4.2% gender-minority participants) to examine relations between three types of sexualizing media exposure (reality television, music videos, pornography) and active sexting behaviors (i.e., requesting and sending). Among cisgender boys, exposure to sexually oriented reality television was positively related to active sexting behaviors, but this link was not found for cisgender girls or gender-minority participants. Music video exposure was related to active sexting behaviors only among cisgender boys and pornography consumption was positively related to active sexting behaviors among all gender groups. A positive outcome expectancy (i.e., sexting is fun) consistently mediated these relations. A negative outcome expectancy (i.e., sexting is risky) only mediated the relations between pornography consumption and active sexting behaviors among cisgender girls. Results are discussed in light of social cognitive theory (Bandura, 2009) and the 3AM Model (Wright, 2011).

Correlates of Sexting Coercion Victimization

In an online sample of adults aged 18 to 30 (n = 2,828), we examined if experiencing sexting coercion victimization was correlated with demographic (e.g., sexual orientation), relationship domain variables (e.g., number and length of relationships), prior victimization, sexuality domain variables (e.g., pornography use), and sexting behaviour (e.g., frequency). Approximately 1 in 5 participants reported being pressured (22%; 620/2,828; Nmen = 125, Nwomen = 495), threatened (5%; 144/2,828; Nmen = 19, Nwomen = 125), or coerced (22%; 629/2,828; Nmen = 127, Nwomen = 502) into sending a sext. Prior victimization, greater mating effort (e.g., multiple partners, infidelity) were unique correlates of experiencing sexting coercion victimization. Alternatively, greater pornography consumption among females was associated with a reduction in the likelihood of experiencing sexting coercion victimization. The study highlights correlates that increase an individual’s susceptibility to coercive sexting. Our findings can inform interventions and future research directions.

Hidden desires, echoed distress: Dissecting Nigeria’s sexting landscape and its ties to depression

In a broader context of increasing incidences of sexting-related backlashes resulting in victims’ depression and, at times, suicide in Nigeria, this study examines the prevalence, trends, and mental health implications of sexting among 700 Nigerian social media users. With the help of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Sexting Behaviors and Motives Questionnaire, we found that 58% of respondents engaged in sexting, a high percentage given the cultural conservatism of Nigeria. In addition, more than 41% admitted forwarding or having another forward sexted images or messages without the victims’ consent, increasing the risk of cyberbullying and subsequent mental health problems. In our study, we found a strong positive relationship between sexting and depression; the effects of sexting on depression differed for men and women: Men sexters exhibited higher depression levels than women. Our analysis, which employed descriptive, regression, and Structural Equation Model (SEM) methodologies, suggests that despite regional cultural disparities, sexting behaviors are surprisingly uniform across Nigeria. This study underscores the urgent need for informed strategies addressing digital privacy, security, and mental well-being in the context of sexting in Nigeria.

Protection of ITE Law Against Sexting By Teenagers

The phenomenon of sexting, especially among teenagers, has become a significant problem because of its impact that can damage psychology, reputation and even the future. Many teenagers may not be aware of the legal consequences of sexting behavior, such as violations of the ITE Law which can result in imprisonment and fines. The purpose of this research is to find out how the implementation of ITE Law in preventing sexting behavior among teenagers and to find out what are the inhibiting factors in the implementation of ITE Law in preventing sexting behavior among teenagers. This research is conducted using the normative method which is done by examining library materials or secondary data. The results show that although the ITE Law does not yet have a specific law governing sexting in Indonesia, the ITE Law has an indirect article that can be used to handle these cases, article 27 paragraph (1) of the ITE Law states that the dissemination of electronic information violating public decency can be sanctioned. Although the definition of sexting varies in the context of Indonesian law, the ITE Law can be used to deal with sexting behavior.

The prevalence and factors associated with sexting among Vietnamese adolescents: a gender-specific analysis

Little is known about sexting among the teen population in Vietnam. The study aims to examine the prevalence of sexting behaviors among Vietnamese adolescents and factors affecting sexting behaviors. 724 Vietnamese high school students from 15 to 18 years of age (Mage = 16.65, SDage = 0.60, 57.90% female) anonymously and voluntarily completed a self-report questionnaire measuring sexting behaviors and other related factors. Results revealed that 43.9% of adolescents were involved in at least one type of sexting behavior and 25% conducted at least one type of active sexting behavior. Gender differences were found in all types of sexting, with more involvement of males than females. Multiple logistic regression results showed that sexual sensation seeking was strongly related to all types of sexting behaviors in both genders, and exposure to sexually explicit internet material (SEIM) was associated with all types of active sexting behaviors among female adolescents. Sexting has become a relatively notable form of sexual interaction among teenagers in Vietnam. Therefore, parents, educators, and key stakeholders need to develop effective sex education programs that recognize the sexting behaviors of young people and support them in developing healthy relationships and existing safely and responsibly in a digital age.

Longitudinal associations between positive parenting and youths’ engagement in sexting behaviors: The mediating role of filial self-efficacy beliefs

Youths who enter emerging adulthood with a background of familial relations grounded in positive parent-child interactions are better equipped to cope with transitional stressors, to voice effectively their opinions with parents, and to resist engaging in risky activities. However, little is known about the longitudinal associations between positive parenting, filial self-efficacy beliefs and youths' engagement in sexting behaviors. This study examined if positive parenting (mothers' and fathers' reports at children ages 13, 14, and 15) were related to youths' engagement in sexting behaviors (child's reports at age 19) both directly and indirectly, through adolescents perceived filial self-efficacy beliefs (child's reports at age 18). Participants included 194 Italian children (MAgeAtTime1 = 13.54, 52.6% girls), their mothers (n = 193), and fathers (n = 150), who provided data across five waves over seven years. The mediation model was tested through a path analysis. Overall, results showed that, controlling for child gender and family SES, the effect of positive parenting on sexting behaviors was fully mediated by higher levels of perceived filial self-efficacy beliefs. The study reveals filial self-efficacy beliefs as central to the benefits conveyed to teens by parents in reducing their sexting behaviors.

Sin in the Digital Flesh? Religiosity and the Sexting Behavior of Women and Men in the United States.

Scholars have noted a rise in sexting behavior in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the association between religion and sexual behavior has been widely studied, researchers have yet to consider whether sexting behavior might vary according to levels of religiosity. Building on prior research, this study uses national survey data to formally test whether several dimensions of religiosity (religious attendance, divine control, and religious/spiritual struggles) are associated with the sexting behavior of women (n = 619, Mage = 40.28, SD = 11.50) and men (n = 548, Mage = 40.04, SD = 11.51). Results suggest that the odds of sexting are lower among women who report higher levels of in-person religious attendance (not virtual attendance) and greater perceptions of divine control. Among women and men, the odds of sexting are higher among those who report more religious/spiritual struggles. This study is among the first to show how various dimensions of religiosity might influence sexting behavior in different ways for women and men during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important for future research to replicate our findings and to consider whether other dimensions of religiosity might also contribute to the likelihood of sexting in an increasingly digital world.

Patterns of Sexting by Youths: A Latent Class Analysis

Sexting (exchanging sexual correspondence in the online space) is considered a practice that expresses sexuality in the online space. Between adolescents, sexting can be part of a couple relationship or outside of it, and can be voluntary or coercive. Regardless of motives, sexting has been linked to various negative outcomes. Understanding the factors that influence sexting behavior is essential for developing effective prevention and intervention programs. The present study aimed to identify and compare different profiles of sexting behavior in adolescents using latent class analysis. Participants were 487 Israeli adolescents aged 14-19 (male N = 215, 44%, female N = 272, 56%) years who completed an online survey of demographic factors, online parental mediation, family and friend cohesion, and perception of sexting norms. Two distinct classes of individuals were identified: those who engage in sexting (“sexters”) and those who do not (“non-sexters”). Sexters were more likely to be secular, and without a romantic partner. These findings may inform interventions aimed at preventing negative outcomes associated with adolescent sexting.

Sexting Behavior Among Youths

The advent of digital technology and smartphones with internet access has affected many aspects of youth development, including sexual development. One frequently studied type of digital technology use related to young people’s sexual communication is sexting, which is the exchange of sexually explicit content electronically for sexual or romantic purposes. This theoretical review of research, lists and explains commonly studied characteristics of sexting: nature, determinants, and consequences of sexting behavior. The consensus was critical for nearly all characteristics examined in sexting research. Gaps in existing knowledge and methodology as well as recommendations for future research on youth sexting are discussed.

Longitudinal Associations between Different Types of Sexting, Adolescent Mental Health, and Sexual Risk Behaviors: Moderating Effects of Gender, Ethnicity, Disability Status, and Sexual Minority Status.

The present study investigated the moderating effect of adolescent demographic variables in the longitudinal associations among different types of sexting, mental health (i.e., depression, self-harm, subjective health complaints), and sexual risk behaviors. There were 1113 adolescents (ages 14-17years; Mage = 16.36; SDage = .81; 50% female) from six high schools located in the United States included in this study. Adolescents completed questionnaires on their sexting behaviors, mental health, and sexual risk behaviors during the ninth grade; in tenth grade, they completed questionnaires on mental health and sexual risk behaviors. Non-consensual sexting and pressured sexting were both related positively to each of the mental health variables and sexual risk behaviors. The relationship between non-consensual sexting and depressive symptoms was stronger for girls, ethnic minorities, those adolescents with disabilities, and sexual minorities. Similar patterns were found for pressured sexting, non-suicidal self-harm, and subjective health complaints. The relationships between pressured sexting and sexual risk behaviors were stronger for girls, ethnic minorities, those adolescents with disabilities, and those who identified as sexual minorities. Research focused on the relationships among different types of sexting, mental health, and sexual risk behaviors is important as such research facilitates the development of evidence-based recommendations for sexting harm prevention and sexual education programs.

Edukasi Perilaku Sexting Dalam Meningkatkan Pengetahuan Remaja di Kabupaten Bulukumba

: Indonesia, as a developing country, has a fairly large teenage population. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that teenagers are residents in the age range of 10-19 years. However, one of the developments in the industrial revolution 4.0 is a big leap in the information and communication technology sector. The development of technology among teenagers has triggered quite an increase in the use of smartphones so that it can influence teenage behavior, where teenagers also participate in sexting behavior, causing concern in various circles. The term sexting refers to the sending and receiving of sexual images through some form of virtual messaging where someone sends messages or material in the form of images and videos electronically, especially via smartphones, the internet and other electronic media. With the increasing number of teenagers and very complex teenage problems, especially the most prominent problem is teenage sexual behavior, which is the beginning of teenage reproductive health problems, this service aims to increase teenagers' knowledge about sexting behavior in order to avoid sexting behavior. The method used is a pre-test and post-test after health education regarding sexting behavior. The results show that the majority of teenagers' knowledge before counseling was less than 12 teenagers or 80%. Meanwhile, teenagers' knowledge before being given counseling was lowest at Good knowledge, namely 1 person or 6.67%. Teenagers' knowledge after counseling was highest in good knowledge, namely 14 people or 93.33%. This is an appropriate benchmark for the success of counseling.

A Latent Profile Analysis of Greek University Students’ Sexting Profiles: Associations with Big Five Personality Traits

The aim of this study was to examine the associations between sexting profiles and five factor model (FFM) personality traits among Greek university students. A sample of 2913 participants predominantly aged between 18 and 25 years (M = 22; SD = 3.54; 69.6% females) completed a self-report online questionnaire that measured sexting behaviors and FFM traits. Latent profile analysis identified five distinct profiles which were labeled uninvolved, consensual sexters, non-consensual sexters, unwanted sexters, and highly involved sexters. The different sexting profiles were associated with distinct patterns of FFM trait scores. Specifically, the uninvolved scored higher on agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness than those highly involved in sexting, consensual, non-consensual, and unwanted sexters. Furthermore, those who sent unwanted sexts were more likely to be emotionally unstable than the consensual sexters and those not involved. These findings indicate that sexting behaviors may be related to certain personality traits and emphasize the importance of considering individual differences when studying sexting behaviors. The practical implications of the findings are discussed.

PENGARUH MENONTON PORNOGRAFI TERHADAP PERILAKU MENYIMPANG SEXTING PADA REMAJA DI KABUPATEN TANAH BUMBU

Teenage awareness of reproductive organ maturity encourages to search for sexually related matters due to the development of technology and communication among adolescents by easily accessing pornographic content. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of watching pornography frequently through internet media on the behavior of sexting in adolescents. This study design was a Mixed Method with a quantitative method by using survey analytical with a cross-sectional approach and a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. Samples in this quantitative study were 283 respondents by using cluster random sampling, the study instrument used a questionnaire while the qualitative study were 6 respondents by using snowball sampling. The results of the quantitative method by using the Spearman rank indicated that the frequency variable watching pornography with the Sexting behavior p value 0.000 (<0.05), which means that H0 was rejected and H1 was accepted. The results of a qualitative study indicated that the first sub-themes of sexting behavior were the types of behavior of sending, receiving forwarding text, photos and videos that were sexual redundant. The second sub-theme of sexing behavior is the various reasons for doing text as a need and language.

Estimating the Prevalence and Identifying the Correlates of Sexting Behaviors Among Cambodian Male Adolescents.

Male youths are more likely to experience peer pressure that encourages them to engage in risky behaviors than female youths, and this pressure can lead to an increased risk of sexting among male youths. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of and factors associated with sexting among Cambodian male youths. The correlational cross-sectional study design was utilized. This study surveyed 647 Cambodian male youths aged 15 to 24 years. The measurement included sending or receiving messages (sexts) that contain sexually explicit messages, images, or videos, and affecting factors to sexting. Around 32.5% of participants sent sexts, and 38.9% received them. Open relationships, pornographic website use, perception of friends' sexual activity, frequent thoughts about sex, higher sexual sensation-seeking tendencies, positive attitudes toward sex, and sexual experience were associated with increased likelihood of sending and receiving sexts. Based on the findings of this study, by offering suitable education, guidance, and intervention programs, we can effectively mitigate the adverse repercussions of sexting while fostering healthy sexual behaviors among youths.

Influences on sexting in an intimate relationship: Motivations, risks, communication, personality traits, and relationship variables

People in intimate relationships sext more than those in casual relationships or those who are single. Past research indicates a differential pattern in sexting behaviour based on relationship status, so a closer look at how sexting might serve the sexual and relationship needs of those in intimate relationships is warranted. In this study, we used quantitative and qualitative methods to investigate several factors that influence sexting behaviour within intimate relationships. Participants ( N = 771; 76% women, 23% men, 0.5% non-binary) completed an online questionnaire about personality traits, satisfaction, communication, trust, commitment, motivations, and risks that included open-text space to elaborate responses. This study used incentive motivational theory as a guide. Results suggest that for those in committed relationships, sexting is a way to have intimate connection that is mediated by technology. Participants were motivated to sext for several reasons, but most commonly for sexual gratification. Participants did not perceive there to be any risks to sexting with their partner. Sexting was found to be positively related to relationship and sexual satisfaction, commitment, erotophilia, and sexual sensation seeking. The therapeutic implications of these results are discussed.

Receive, forward, repeat: The link between sexting intention, sexting attitudes, and non-consensual sexting behaviours

Receive, forward, repeat: The link between sexting intention, sexting attitudes, and non-consensual sexting behaviours

Receive, forward, repeat: The link between sexting intention, sexting attitudes, and non-consensual sexting behaviours

Sexting concerns the act of sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages or photos (i.e., ‘sexts’) through electronic means. When sexts are received or forwarded without the consent of the original sender, this is called non-consensual sexting. Our study set out to increase our understanding as to why individuals engage in non-consensual sext forwarding, by examining the role of sexting intentions, attitudes, and experience with non-consensual sext receiving. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey among a sample of 218 Belgian adults. Of this total sample, 169 (Mage = 25.85 years, 73.4% women) respondents had at least once received a sext from someone, resulting in a subsample of 169 respondents for the present study. Correlation analyses showed that non-consensual forwarding of sexts was significantly positively linked to stronger attitudes towards the risks of sexting and to experiences of non-consensual sext receiving. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that non-consensual sext forwarding was significantly linked to negative attitudes about sexting, but that this significant link disappeared when non-consensual sext receiving was included as a predictor in the model. Thus, our findings show that non-consensual sext forwarding is primarily linked to non-consensual sext receiving, suggesting that individuals who experience non-consensual sexting as a recipient are inclined to non-consensually forward a sext themselves regardless of their attitudes about (the risks of) sexting. This suggests that non-consensual sexting behaviours may be driven by social learning and/or impulsive decision-making processes, indicating an important avenue for future research.

The Role of Sexting on the Perception of Image-Based Sexual Abuse.

Gender-based violence is a widespread phenomenon that significantly impacts many women around the world. Among the different forms that it might take, image-based sexual abuse represents one of the most common forms nowadays. According to the literature, sexting-the sharing of sexually explicit messages or images-is one of the most important risk factors for image-based sexual abuse because sexts can be forwarded or published without the authorization of the originator. Nevertheless, sexting can play a role in sexual and relational development and serve as a first step in experimenting with sexual contact in real life. In this study (N = 603 from the general population), we examined the relations between people's beliefs about sexting, attitudes toward it, and sexting behavior on the one hand, and reactions to a situation of nonconsensual dissemination of sexts on the other hand. Results showed that social pressure exerted by peers and partners to sext was associated with both positive attitudes toward sexting and sexting behaviors. Attitudes toward sexting, then, have a spillover effect on the reactions toward a victim of nonconsensual dissemination of sexts, in terms of empathy, victim blaming, and affective reactions. Implications for both research and policymaking regarding this form of gender-based violence are discussed.