Teen Sexting: Concerns Overblown?

Strategic Insights -

A growing concern about teen sexting has raised questions about the scope of the issue and the implications for young people. While some cases of sexting do come to the attention of law enforcement, research suggests that the problem may be less widespread than initially thought. According to two recent studies, the majority of sexting cases do not result in juvenile arrests, and the number of youth who send nude pictures of themselves is relatively low.

Key Takeaways:

  • A study of 1,560 Internet users aged 10-17 found that 2.5% of youth surveyed had participated in sexting in the past year, but only 1% involved images that potentially violated child pornography laws.
  • The study also found that the majority of parents were unaware of their child's sexting activities, and many were unsure about how to address the issue.
  • In a separate study, researchers discovered that in most sexting cases investigated by the police, no juvenile arrest occurred.
  • The second study, which examined a national sample of 675 sexting cases collected from law enforcement agencies, found that most cases involved consensual sexting between partners.
  • The research highlights the need for parents and educators to have open and honest conversations with young people about online safety and digital citizenship.
  • The studies also suggest that law enforcement agencies need to reevaluate their approach to sexting cases, focusing on education and prevention rather than punishment.

Statistics:

  • 2.5% of youth surveyed had participated in sexting in the past year (Study 1).
  • 1% of youth who participated in sexting had sent images that potentially violated child pornography laws (Study 1).
  • 675 sexting cases were examined in the second study.
  • 90% of sexting cases examined in the second study involved consensual sexting between partners.
  • In the second study, no juvenile arrest was made in the majority of sexting cases investigated by the police.

Sources:

  • University of New Hampshire (UHM) Crimes against Children Research Centre
  • Paediatrics journal
  • New Hampshire statement