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Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) is characterized by an intense desire to continually stay connected with others and is strictly linked to motivational factors implicated in social interactions, particularly through online communication. FoMO represents a risk factor for problematic use of communication through social media platforms. Only a few studies have explored the relationship between FoMO and sexting. This study is the first to investigate the relationship between FoMO and three motivations for sexting (i.e., sexual purpose, body image reinforcement, and instrumental/aggravated reasons), while also examining the moderating effects of age, gender, and sexual orientation. The study involved 911 Italian heterosexual and LGB+ young adults aged 18–30 years (M = 22.3; SD = 2.57; 74% women; 70.4% heterosexual). The findings reveal that FoMO predicts sexting across all its motivational components. No significant differences emerged between men and women in their levels of engagement in sexting for sexual purposes. However, women were more likely to engage in sexting for body image reinforcement compared to men. Conversely, men demonstrated a higher likelihood of sexting for instrumental/aggravated reasons than women. LGB+ people, compared to heterosexuals, demonstrated a higher propensity for engaging in sexting for sexual purposes, body image reinforcement, and instrumental/aggravated reasons. FoMO emerged as a strong predictor of sexting for body image reinforcement and instrumental/aggravated reasons, especially for LGB+ people. This study identifies FoMO as a predictor of sexting motivations, particularly among women and LGB+ individuals, who may seek validation or connection online. Preventive interventions are needed to foster autonomy, enhance body self-esteem, and promote mutual respect in online interactions, especially for people embodying marginalized identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The proliferation of sexting among adolescents around the world today has woven a complex tapestry of sexual expression and exploration. However, its implications extend beyond consensual engagement, occasionally manifesting as a form of cyberviolence. Varied prevalence rates further complicate our understanding of the extent of youth sexting worldwide. Therefore, this study aims to provide a tool to measure sexting in young people from different countries by validating the Sexting Behaviours and Motives Questionnaire (SBM-Q), a comprehensive instrument that captures the diversity of consensual and non-consensual sexting behaviors and motives in different countries. Method: A total of 4739 students, aged 15 to 25, participated. They were from Spain (1563), Croatia (1598), and Bosnia and Herzegovina (1578). Confirmatory factor analyses and multigroup analyses were conducted. Results: The validity of the instrument was confirmed, endorsing its six-factor structure, which includes the dimensions of sending, reasons for sending, victimization by non-consensual forwarding, receiving, forwarding, and reasons for forwarding. Internal consistency across the three countries further underscores the robustness of the SBM-Q. Conclusions: This validated questionnaire provides a reliable measure for understanding sexting behaviors and motives in different countries. Cultural nuances are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship of parental concerns and attitudes toward restriction strategies with the implementation of parental mediation strategies and parental awareness of their children's involvement in sexting. The research involved 710 German adolescents aged between 12 and 17 years old, along with one parent from each family (569 mothers and 141 fathers). Data for this research was collected in 2019 as part of the EU Kids Online project. Multigroup structural equation modelling was used to analyse relationships between parental concerns, positive attitudes toward restrictions, mediation strategies and parental awareness across two age groups (12-14 and 15-17 years old). Results indicate that parents have equal concerns for younger and older children, but have more concerns for girls than boys. Regarding younger children, parental concerns are positively related to monitoring strategies while negatively associated with the use of restrictive strategies. Concerns about online activities have been found to predict the use of monitoring and active strategies for older children. Parental positive attitudes towards restrictions are also a predictor of the use of different strategies, with a positive relationship with restrictive, active and monitoring strategies in both age groups. Restrictive mediation is positively correlated with parental awareness about a child's online sexual experiences in the younger group, while active mediation is positively correlated with parental awareness about a child's online sexual experiences in the older group. In both age groups, monitoring strategies are negatively correlated with parental awareness about a child's online sexual experiences. These findings contribute valuable insights into age-appropriate strategies when it comes to addressing sexting experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of sexting and dissemination of explicit sexual images (ESI) among teenagers has risen with mobile technology. Social media platforms amplify these practices, perpetuating problematic usage patterns. This study explores the understanding of how young people perceive the senders and receivers of unsolicited dick pics, focusing on gender construction. Ten semi-structured group interviews with cisgendered girls and boys aged 12–16 were conducted and analysed thematically. The findings show that boys are the primary senders of dick pics, while girls are primarily on the receiving end, with boys and girls interpreting unsolicited dick pics differently. Girls more often viewed such behaviour as romantic, while only boys recognized it as harassment. This disparity emphasizes the need for internet safety education and interventions to challenge mainstream constructions of gender norms. By addressing these issues, educators and caregivers can better support adolescents in navigating the complexities of online interactions and promoting healthy relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deriving from a large-scale research project on intimacy in data-driven culture in Finland, I build on a sub-study examining Finland's presumed sexual digital divide between generations. I analysed in-depth, semi-structured research discussions with six social media users who actively participated in the online discussion following the posting of a video on TikTok by the National Board of Investigation on the potential risks and dangers of sending nude images online. I wanted to know why this particular 'awareness-raising video' gained so much negative feedback from its young audiences on TikTok and other social media platforms. By using the idea of 'generational sexualities', I focus on the shared social imaginary the research participants seem to have on the sexual and digital divide between generations. As a result of my analysis, I propose that the idea of a generational gap regarding the digital modes of sexual engagement is a culturally and socially shared narrative contributing to a disconnective effect between the generations in sexual matters. Furthermore, the analysis of my research materials reveals that young people's 'full sexual rights' operate as a specific generational narrative that organises and structures my research participants' perspectives of what is inclusive and socially just sexual education. The educational efforts must go beyond risk and harm as 'no-sexting' educational materials may contribute to sexual discrimination and marginalisation, increase social inequality and negatively impact young people's sexual wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Cyberbullying and Sexting: Regulatory Challenges in the Digital Age" by Elizabeth Agnew explores the legal and ethical dilemmas surrounding youth experiences of cyberbullying and sexting, with a focus on Northern Ireland. Agnew's research highlights the gendered nature of cyberbullying and nonconsensual sexting behaviors, particularly affecting girls. The article also discusses the need for nuanced responses to technology-facilitated harm, such as AI-generated sexualized images, and emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing these issues within rapidly shifting youth cultures. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Several studies investigated the relationship between personality traits and sexting behaviors using the Five Factors Model and the HEXACO six-factor personality model. To our knowledge, no study has investigated the relation between trait emotional intelligence and sexting. Therefore, the present study examined the associations between the four factors of trait emotional intelligence (i.e., well-being, self-control, emotionality, and sociability) and different forms of sexting (experimental sexting, non-consensual sexting, sexting under pressure, and risky sexting) in a sample of Italian adolescents. Methods: A convenience group of 760 high school students aged 14 to 19 years (Mage = 16.76, SDage = 1.56; 52.6% females) completed an anonymous self-report questionnaire between January and June 2021, and data were analyzed through logistic regression analyses. Results: The main results showed that (1) lower emotionality was related to higher involvement in non-consensual sexting, sexting under pressure, and risky sexting; (2) higher sociability was related to higher involvement in experimental, non-consensual, and risky sexting; (3) lower self-control was related to higher involvement in experimental sexting; and (4) well-being was unrelated to sexting. Conclusions: This study expands knowledge about the relationships between personality and sexting, examining the role of specific dimensions of trait emotional intelligence and various forms of sexting. Policy Implications: The study suggests that fostering the ability to express and understand emotions should be the focus of preventive interventions targeting adolescents to contrast aggravated and risky sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Camera-equipped smartphones and other devices allow people to capture and share images directly with others in ways that are spontaneous, instant and relatively inexpensive. Such sharing is a common part of modern sexual intimacies, despite media and educational discourses warning of potential risks. Methods: This paper reports on a qualitative study in which we interviewed 23 Australian adults about the ways in which they used with digital sexual imagery in their sex lives. The study aimed to explore participants' experiences of digital sexual self-image creation and sharing and the ways discourses of risk and safety shape these experiences. Results: Findings showed that participants tended to view the creation and exchange of sexual images as a form of sexual play that built intimacy, sexual tension and eroticism into their relationships and expanded their sexual and relationship experiences in positive ways. Participants were aware that sending sexual or nude images left them vulnerable to potential harm or unwanted sexual exposure and were concerned that some people would view such practices as foolish or irresponsible given these risks held such high profile. These concerns meant participants were often secretive about their experiences although the sense of risk and vulnerability in these exchanges enhanced intimacy or eroticism for some participants. Conclusions: Educational approaches to managing digital risk should recognise that people often have positive digital sexual experiences that can lead them to disengage from fear-based messaging. Policy implications: As digital technologies evolve, their integration with human sexual intimacy will continue to change and develop in unforeseen ways. Educational and regulatory responses will require ongoing scrutiny and innovation to acknowledge users' positive experiences and desires while responding to risks and challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the moderating role of relationship length on the association between coercive sexting and intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration. Research has supported a positive association between coercive sexting and IPV perpetration (Drouin et al., 2015), though no prior research has examined how relationship length moderates this association. To test this relationship, we administered a multipart questionnaire online to 798 undergraduate participants (79% White, 77% female, M age = 19.1 years) currently in a relationship. We assessed physical, psychological, and sexual IPV perpetration. Relationship length moderated the link between coercive sexting and sexual IPV perpetration. More specifically, the association was stronger in longer-term compared to shorter-term relationships. These results carry implications for future research and IPV education and intervention programs, suggesting that they should incorporate coercive sexting into their curriculums and target newer couples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Electrónica de Psicología Iztacala is the property of Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cyprus Turkish Journal of Psychiatry & Psychology (CTJPP) / Kıbrıs Türk Psikiyatri ve Psikoloji Dergisi is the property of Cyprus Turkish Journal of Psychiatry & Psychology (CTJPP) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) refers to the nonconsensual production, dissemination, or threat of dissemination of private sexual images of another. Arabs belong to a conservative society where the distribution of a nude photo constitutes a violation of the dignity of the family and may have serious consequences. Based on semistructured in-depth interviews, the present study examined how 32 Arab educational counselors in Israel handle IBSA. Findings suggest that counselors identified the victim as experiencing difficulties that allowed her to be harmed. Also, it was found that counselors were afraid it might harm the victims on the grounds of family honor. These findings indicate that it is necessary to find culturally sensitive solutions both for the prevention and treatment of this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the mediating role of loneliness in the relationship between attachment styles and sexting among Chinese college students in romantic relationships. Participants comprised 656 college students who completed surveys measuring attachment styles, sexting, and loneliness. Results were as follows: (a) attachment anxiety was positively correlated with sexting, (b) attachment avoidance was negatively correlated was sexting, (c) loneliness mediated the associations between attachment styles and sexting, and (d) the indirect effect of loneliness in the relationship between attachment anxiety and sexting was stronger than that in the relationship between attachment avoidance and sexting. These findings expand the understanding of the psychological mechanisms at play in the relationship between adult attachment and sexting by introducing a theoretical framework that incorporates uses and gratification theory. This study also provides practical insights for sex education providers that can empower students with information regarding the psychological motivations and physical risks related to sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study uses latent class analysis to explore patterns of family communication about health-related topics during early adolescence. Directed parent–child communication is important for early adolescents to make informed health risk decisions, yet not all families discuss all health issues, especially surrounding sensitive topics such as sex and substance use. Participants were 182 seventh-grade students from a rural, low-income county in the Southeastern U.S. (M age = 12; 49% girls, 48% boys, 2% transgender or another gender; 49% lower socioeconomic status; 34% Latine, 33% White, 23% Black/African American, 2% Asian, 8% another race/ethnicity). Participants self-reported if they had ever discussed 10 health risk topics with their parents: alcohol, cigarettes, e-cigarettes/vaping, marijuana, sex, sexting, condoms/birth control, bullying, sleep, and time spent online. Four latent classes emerged: those who were unlikely to have discussed any topics ("Low—All Topics", 38.7%); those who were likely to have discussed all topics ("High—All Topics", 25.2%); those whose communication selectively excluded discussions of sex ("Everything but Sex", 18.1%); and those who selectively excluded discussions of substance use ("Moderate—Low Substance", 18.1%). Adolescents' gender and sexual experience were related to class membership; their socioeconomic status and substance use experience were not. Results highlight that health risk family communication patterns are not one-size-fits-all. Understanding pluralistic patterns of parent-child health risk communication can inform interventions to promote effective parent communication. Highlights: Latent class analysis determined four profiles of parent–child communication about 10 health risk topics during early adolescence. Most families discussed (1) no or (2) all topics, some selectively excluded (3) sex and (4) substance use topics. Early adolescents' gender and sexual experience (but not SES or prior substance use) were related to class membership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting is associated with a range of negative outcomes among youth. While parents and caregivers can play a critical role in the prevention of youth risk behaviors, nationally representative research has yet to examine U.S. caregivers' perceptions of youth's sexting motivations to help inform sexting risk prevention efforts. Using 2018 and 2019 Fall ConsumerStyles online panel survey data (N = 1,034), this study estimated and examined U.S. caregivers' perceptions of youth's sexting motivations and the associations of such perceptions with concerns about their children (ages 10–17) getting and sharing sexts (sexual messages, photos, videos). Weighted percentages were calculated to describe caregivers' perceptions of youth's sexting motivations. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine associations between caregivers' perceptions and concerns about youth's sexting. Results suggest that many caregivers perceive youth sext because they think it is harmless (72.79%), they want to be popular or boast (70.51%), they have low self-esteem (52.00%), and/or it is part of their sexual exploration process (49.05%). Fewer caregivers perceived that youth sext because they want revenge (21.80%) or to harm others (16.06%). Caregivers' concerns about their children getting and sharing sexts were related to perceiving that youth sext because of low self-esteem, sexual exploration processes, or to harm others. The perception that youth sext because they want to be popular or boast was related to concern about youth getting but not sharing sexts. Odds of concern were significantly higher among caregivers from some racial/ethnic subgroups. Findings can inform sexting prevention efforts that include caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image-based sexual abuse represents an increasingly common form of gender-based violence, consisting of the act of non-consensually capturing, distributing, or threatening to distribute sexually explicit material depicting another person. The purpose of the present study was to investigate how women victims' noncompliance with traditional female sexuality influences bystanders' perceptions of the phenomenon. Specifically, we experimentally examined whether a woman's sexual agency (high vs. low) and the length (steady vs. transient) of the relationship with the perpetrator affected her moral evaluation, victim blaming, and participants' willingness to support her. A sample of 597 adults (65.7% women, Mage = 31.29 years) took part in the study. The findings indicated that while a transient (vs. steady) relationship with the perpetrator significantly lowered the woman's perceived moral virtue and increased the extent to which she was blamed for the incident, a high (vs. low) woman's sexual agency decreased participants' helping intentions towards her. Additionally, results showed that men were less likely than women to attribute moral virtue and help the victim. Lastly, through the mediation of moral virtue and victim blaming, the length of the relationship indirectly influenced participants' helping intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although sexting is a widespread phenomenon among today’s youth, little is known about their experiences of sexting with their intimate partners. This study addresses this gap by examining young people’s reasons for sexting and emotional reactions to sending and receiving sexts in their intimate relationships, as reported by 764 (48.7% girls) 15–20-year-olds in Finland. Both younger and older girls and boys reported mostly positive reactions to both sending and receiving sexts. However, girls reported more negative reactions than boys did. Girls’ reasons for sending sexts were more frequently related to their own desire to feel sexy or flirtatious, their need for validation from their partner, or the pressure that their partner put on them to sext, whereas boys’ reasons more often indicated normative ideas of sexting as a typical component in a romantic relationship and responding to sexts sent to them by their partners. The results suggest that although it is mostly consensual and reciprocal, sexting within intimate relationships may carry different meanings for boys and girls, reflecting gendered heterosexual norms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hate speech is evidence that social networks do not always favor modern democracies; there are more and more issues related to their misuse, putting Western values at stake. This phenomenon has increased with the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this paper is to investigate in Spanish and Italian university students their perceptions of hate speech such as sexting, grooming, cyberbullying, to analyze their online behaviors as victims and aggressors and to explore the forms of hatred towards people who have played a relevant role in the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a quantitative-descriptive methodology, 418 university students from both countries participated, recruited through non-probabilistic sampling. The results obtained show that in both countries there is an increase in the perception of hatred during COVID-19. In this context, the most increased forms of violence are sexting, gender violence and cyberbullying; among the most affected categories are healthcare workers, supermarket workers, and people with disabilities. Therefore, the results highlight the need to address hate speech with an educational approach oriented towards both critical and responsible media literacy as well as respect for diversity, interculturality, and emotional education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the prevalence of receiving sexts among adolescents and its relationship with depressive symptoms and self-esteem. A survey was administered to 728 high school students in Sweden in 2019 and 2020 (50.4% girls and 46.4% boys) using a cross-sectional design. Findings showed that significantly more boys (28.4%) than girls (12.6%) reported having happily received a sexual picture, while significantly more girls (48.8%) than boys (s.2%) reported having received an unwanted sexual picture at least once in their life. Happily receiving a sexual picture was not related to any of the investigated mental health correlates among girls, whereas it was positively associated with depressive symptoms among boys. Receiving an unsolicited sexual picture was associated with higher depressive symptoms and lower self-esteem for both boys and girls. This work offers a novel approach to studying the reception of sexual images by teenagers Practical implications of the present findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENTThis study sought to describe the characteristics of people who non-consensually forward sexts, to examine the overlap between the non-consensual forwarding of sexts and in-person sexual coercion, and to investigate what correlates were associated with each perpetration type (i.e. the non-consensual forwarding of sexts and in-person sexual coercion). In our online community sample of 2,780 emerging adults (i.e. aged 18–30), mostly from North America (97.9%), we found a prevalence of 9.2% for the non-consensual forwarding of sexts and a 13.7% prevalence for in-person sexual coercion. The two types of sexual coercion overlapped; however, more perpetrators of the non-consensual forwarding of sexts had also committed in-person perpetration than in-person perpetrators who also committed the non-consensual forwarding of sexts. Higher sex drive, being a man, greater susceptibility to peer pressure, and self-reporting the other type of sexual coercion were independently related with in-person sexual coercion and the non-consensual forwarding of sexts. Our findings suggest a possible overlapping etiology between in-person sexual coercion and the non-consensual forwarding of sexts and that programmes aimed at reducing in-person sexual coercion could be effective for reducing the non-consensual forwarding of sexts.Results from our online survey of 2,780 adults aged 18-30 suggest that using “revenge pornography” to refer to the non-consensual forwarding of sexual materials is unnecessarily restrictive and does not represent the nature of this phenomenon. Further, we found that positive beliefs about the non-consensual forwarding of sexts was a common motivation for non-consensually forwarding sexts, suggesting that social media campaigns educating emerging adults on the risks of the non-consensual forwarding of sexts may be effective in reducing this behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting is the sharing of sexually suggestive or provocative content via new technologies. Due to the lack of studies on sexting in Greece, this study aimed to investigate the Greek sexting landscape and its impact on individuals and human relationships. Thus, 485 participants (354 women, 124 men, 4 “other”, 3 undefined) were recruited through an online questionnaire. All participants were Greeks or residents of Greece, and the age range was 16–64. Analysis showed that teens and young adults aged 16–30 tend to sext more than the ones over 30 years old; also, men are more likely to sext (both receive and send) than women. Despite the potential benefits of sexting between partners, it poses several dangers, too, especially when it is not consensual. Apart from its limitations, the study opens the way for further investigation into sexting in Greece. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive sexual health education for young people often remains largely inaccessible, leaving gaps in knowledge about sexual consent, refusals, sexual assault, and sexting. Snapchat’s My AI, tailored to its users, offers accessible and potentially stigma-free responses to sexual health queries, showing promise in addressing these gaps. This study aimed to evaluate My AI’s effectiveness in handling questions related to sexual communication, assault, and sexting, and its response consistency across users. Collaborating with young adults and leveraging prior literature, our team formulated questions on sexual consent, refusals, sexual assault, and sexting submitted to My AI by 15 researchers. Each team member opened a chat with My AI in Snapchat and asked it a set of questions in the same order. We then conducted a qualitative content analysis to assess for consistency across users. My AI responses emphasized the importance of clear, honest consent and refusal communication through physical contact or direct conversation. With potential experiences of sexual assault or sexting, it advised consultation with a trusted caregiver. While My AI provided similar responses across researchers, variations were noted. My AI’s responses mirrored common sexual health education messages and the responses used language reflective of sympathy toward potential assault victims or those who were asked for sexual images. My AI’s potential to enhance accessibility to sexual health information could empower young people in making informed sexual health decisions. However, variability in responses may limit impact and comprehension, underscoring the importance of educators complementing these tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilized a large‐scale representative sample to explore the prevalence of sexting and its associated factors among adolescents in Taiwan. A total of 12,954 students in grade 5–12 countrywide were randomly selected to answer the sexting module of an online survey. 13.7% of the respondents reported having ever received sexts on cellphone, and 2.0% had sent sexts to others. The prevalence was higher among older adolescents. Gender differences were also found, in which female students were more likely to receive sexts (15.8% vs. 11.7%), while male students were at higher risk of sending sexts to others (2.9% vs. 1.1%). A series of hierarchical logistic regression were further performed to examine the associations between potential factors and receiving/sending sexts as the outcome variables. Age, gender, and time spending on texting were significantly associated with receiving and ending sexts. Online respect was found positively associated with receiving sexts but negatively associated with sending them. Privacy awareness was found not significantly associated with sexting. As the first national survey on this growing issue in Taiwan, the results of the present study highlighted the existence of sexting among local youth. Practice and policy implications were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting has emerged as a prevalent avenue for individuals to express their sexuality and desires. To explore the diverse motivations to engage in sexting a comprehensive review of existing literature and analysis of survey data from 109 individuals from the United States (collected online 2019, mean age of 29.0 years, 56% identified as female) we employ Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to identify distinct profiles of sexting motivations. Three primary profiles emerge: those who sext primarily for sexual purposes, individuals who sext to alleviate relational anxiety and those engaging in sexting for ulterior motives such as body image reinforcement or instrumental/aggressive reasons. Notably, each profile exhibits unique patterns of attachment styles and motivations for engaging in sexting behaviours. While the largest number of participants sext to initiate sexual encounters with their partner(s) (n = 44, 40.4%), a significant subset sexts as a coping mechanism for relational insecurities (n = 34, 31.2%) or with manipulative intentions (n = 31, 28.4%). These findings underscore the complexity of sexting behaviours and highlight the need for tailored interventions and awareness campaigns to promote healthy sexual communication and relationship dynamics. Understanding these diverse motivations is crucial for clinicians, educators and policymakers aiming to address the multifaceted implications of sexting in contemporary society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has shown that sexting is an increasingly common behavior, especially among teens and young adults. However, despite numerous studies, the relevance of sexting to people's well-being is unclear. The present study seeks to determine the relevance of gender in sexting behavior and its association with psychological well-being and intimate partner violence victimization across the life cycle, from adolescence to old age. This study was cross-sectional, and the sample consisted of 6719 women and men from the general Spanish population who were assessed by six questionnaires measuring sexting behavior, psychological distress, psychological well-being, life satisfaction, self-esteem, and intimate partner violence victimization. The results showed that participation in sexting was higher in men than in women at all stages of the life cycle studied, although the differences were not statistically significant among adolescents. Greater sexting behavior was associated with greater intimate partner violence victimization, an association that was stronger for adolescents. And although the magnitude of the association was small, more sexting was also associated with greater psychological distress and lower psychological well-being in all age groups except older women. Our study results allow us to conclude that sexting behavior may pose risks to the well-being of citizens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting has become a common mode of expression within the digital realm. Understanding sexting in the context of African college campuses is crucial, as it reflects the impact of technological advancements and the interplay of cultural norms, values, and societal factors. This review seeks to provide evidence to inform context-specific initiatives and policies aimed at promoting responsible digital communication and enhancing the well-being of college students within the continent. This scoping review followed the guidelines by Askey and O'Malley. The search for records was conducted in four main electronic databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, Central, and JSTOR. Additional searches were conducted using Google Scholar, Google, and ProQuest. A total of 11 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Results: The findings of this review are grouped under the following four main headings: type of sexting, prevalence, predictors of sexting, and outcomes of sexting. The main types of sexting were sending and receiving nude pictures and sexually explicit messages and posting explicit videos and photos on social media. The prevalence rates for general sexting ranged from 9.9% to 74.4%. Positive outcomes of sexting included increased condom negotiation skills and sexual communication that contribute to safer sexual practices. Negative sexual outcomes included high-risk-taking sexual behaviour such as multiple sexual partners. This review highlights the intricate facets of sexting among African college students, and emphasises the interplay between digital communication, societal norms, and individual behaviours. Policies should prioritise cyberbullying prevention, privacy protection, and ethical technology use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the summer of 2020, dozens of high-profile influencers in videogaming entertainment were accused of sexual harassment and predatory behavior. Among them, popular gaming YouTuber Craig Thompson (username Mini Ladd) confessed on Twitter to sexting minors but resumed uploading content to his YouTube channel one month later, resulting in public outcry. Thompson's return to YouTube, as a case study, illustrates how predatory influencers can manipulate technical affordances across social media platforms to insulate themselves from accountability and maintain their revenue and audience. Drawing on data scraped from Twitter (34k tweets) and YouTube (62k comments and video network data), this article uses a mixed-methods social network analysis (Jean Burgess and Ariadna Matamoros-Fernández, 2016) to map the public effort to deplatform Mini Ladd. This case study explores issues of cross-platform insulation and audience manipulation by demonstrating how a predatory influencer: 1) censored keywords in his comments to obfuscate criticism; 2) optimized YouTube's video algorithms to avoid references to his scandal; and 3) upheld harassment towards his young fanbase. Ultimately, I argue that YouTube's policies are ill-equipped to manage the networked practices of predatory influencers and that the platform's reliance on morally motivated networked harassment (Alice E. Marwick, 2021) as a substitute is troubling and ineffective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of problematic internet use (PIU) and risky online behaviors (sexting, sextortion, cybervictimization, and pornography consumption) based on gender, age, and living arrangements, as well as to analyze their relationship. A total of 4,975 participants (62.3% women), aged 18 to 64 years (M= 32.23, SD= 12.92), from the Dominican Republic (52.4%), Ecuador (21.9%), Mexico (14.1%), Peru (7%), Colombia (2.5%), and Argentina (2.1%) took part in the study. PIU was reported by 30.1% of participants, being more frequent among young people aged 18-30 and those living with family. Young people also engaged more in risky online behaviors, especially those living with friends. Among individuals over 30, both PIU and risky online behaviors were less prevalent. An association between PIU and risky online behaviors was confirmed, albeit with a small effect size. These findings highlight the presence of PIU and risky online behaviors among adults in Latin America, suggesting that prevention policies should address both issues comprehensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Durante la pandemia, las medidas de distanciamiento social afectaron las relaciones personales y las plataformas digitales se consolidaron, lo que podría haber generado un posible aumento en las experiencias de sexting en ciertos sectores. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar los cambios en la frecuencia del sexting durante el confinamiento por COVID-19 en jóvenes mexicanos, así como identificar diferencias según sexo, edad y experiencia sexual. Se contó con la participación de 1423 jóvenes de diez estados de la República Mexicana, de los cuales 1142 habían tenido experiencias de sexting. La edad promedio de estos jóvenes fue de 20.49 años, y cerca de la mitad de ellos fueron mujeres. Dadas las medidas sanitarias, la aplicación de los cuestionarios se llevó a cabo mediante una plataforma en línea y se diseminó con el apoyo de un panel de encuestas. Los resultados mostraron un incremento en las prácticas de sexting, principalmente entre la población más joven, sin experiencia sexual y en los hombres, aunque los efectos fueron moderados. Los hallazgos se discuten en virtud de las formas en que se ha evaluado el comportamiento de sexting, así como las medidas adoptadas en México durante la pandemia.

The article studies the process of jealousy transformation in romantic relationships under the influence of digitalization. The author considers such definitions as “digital jealousy”, “digital infidelity”, and “virtual sex”, formulates a definition of digital jealousy, and considers emotional and behavioral reactions when experiencing jealousy under the influence of events and factors of the digital environment. Based on the content analysis results, behavioral markers that can be considered by a partner as evidence of digital infidelity and/or cause digital jealousy have been identified. The specific characteristics of digital jealousy include its existence in conditions of quasi-reality, diffusiveness, deployment in time and space, alienation from the fact of physical infidelity, and virtual representation. The author notes the connection between the intensity of the digital jealousy experience and the subjective significance of virtual space and representation in it. Ambivalence of the digital jealousy experience is expressed by the perception of its occurrence, on the one hand, as a predictor of physical infidelity, and, on the other hand, as a manifestation of crisis in romantic relationships and emotional estrangement of partners. It has been revealed that jealousy in digital space is largely due to a sense of ownership in relation to the time and attention of a partner and is associated with general transformation of romantic relationships in modern society.

Background: Sexting is the sharing of sexually suggestive or explicit text messages or videos using mobile phone. It has been associated with contrasting things ranging from risky health behaviours to maintaining romantic relationships. Due to the increase in cell phone possession among Nigerian young people, it is important to know their views and experiences with sexting. Objectives: This study explored the experiences of postsecondary young people attending pre-varsity examination preparatory centers in Ibadan regarding sexting. Methodology: This was a qualitative study in which four focus group discussions and four in-depth interviews were conducted among purposively selected young people and those who engage in sexting respectively. Content analysis of the data was done after transcription. Results: Sexting was described as rampant among young people and it occurs with peers, adults and international partners. Sexting occurs usually between opposite sex and it was mostly sent using social media with videos and photos commoner than texts. Males reported sending and receiving sext but are of the opinion that females request for them. All the females denied ever sending sext. Reasons for sexting include to initiate romantic relationship, imitate celebrities, get fame and feel acceptable by peers. Experienced and witnessed consequences of sexting include actual sexual intercourse, shame, blackmail and attempted suicide. Only two of the participants would allow their parents to see sext sent to them. Conclusion: Sexting was common among these young people and it is sent across borders. The implication of sexting should be taught in schools to forestall its health and legal consequences.

AbstractThis study analyzed an AI chatbot’s perspectives on adolescent sexting through quantitative questionnaire responses and a qualitative conversational interview. Findings revealed problematic biases stemming from limitations in training data and algorithms. The chatbot showed an imbalanced focus on sexting’s risks compared to benefits for healthy sexual development. Responses frequently associated teen sexting with criminal offenses like child pornography, reflecting legalistic age bias. Gender bias also emerged in framing sexting as far riskier for girls versus boys. Additionally, the chatbot demonstrated gaps applying nuanced consent principles attuned to complex teen relationship dynamics. While covering consent fundamentals, responses lacked an understanding of how initial willingness differs from non-consensual sharing. The study suggests training data limitations skewed the chatbot’s framing away from empowering adolescent sexual agency. Opportunities exist to mitigate biases through improving training data balance, incorporating community input, expanding consent frameworks and encouraging nuanced risk/benefit analysis. More inclusive design with human oversight is vital for chatbots to provide comprehensive, empowering sexuality education to youth. This analysis of AI perspectives reveals the persistence of conservative attitudes and the need to evolve systems to support healthy adolescent sexual development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of technology-facilitated crimes against children worldwide has increased substantially and become one of the most serious crime problems. Due to these considerations, there is a lack of large-scale systematic reviews investigating Cybercrime in and of itself could be challenging to investigate in comparison to traditional ones due to the elusiveness of the cyber realm. Specifically, investigating internet crimes against children comes with specific challenges. These offenses target vulnerable children who are less likely to realize their victimization, lowering the probability of reporting to the proper authorities. With these obstacles in mind, this research study utilizes data information regarding the characteristics of online CSAM users and their practices to inform law enforcement, parents, and the public for preventative and strategic purposes. Furthermore, this study diagnoses the significant challenges of investigating technology-facilitated crimes against children by examining how the current criminal justice system responds to these incidents. The policy recommendations discussed offer a holistic lens for highlighting this critical issue and implementing practical and proactive training solutions for law enforcement and the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of technology has transformed the way young adults develop and maintain relationships, including their sexuality. Since many young adults report low sexual satisfaction, it is important to understand what contributes to these negative experiences. Several studies have identified that attachment anxiety and avoidance are related to lower sexual satisfaction. However, few studies have considered technology-mediated sexual interactions (TMSI) – and the motives for doing so – in the associations between attachment and sexual satisfaction. This study explored the mediating and moderating role of TMSI (frequency and motives) in these associations in a sample of 478 young adults (Study 1) and 142 couples (Study 2). Results showed that attachment anxiety was related to a higher TMSI frequency and engaging in TMSI for avoidance motives. Engaging in TMSI for approach motives was related to higher sexual satisfaction, while engaging in TMSI for avoidance motives was related to lower sexual satisfaction. Finally, engaging in TMSI to manage distance moderated the association between attachment avoidance and sexual satisfaction. These results suggest that beyond the role of attachment anxiety and avoidance, contemporary factors related to digital technologies, such as sexting frequency and motives, are related to sexual satisfaction. This study showed that young adults who have developed insecure attachment are less sexually satisfied and more frequently use technology-mediated sexual interactions (TMSI) such as sexting with their partner, but mostly to avoid negative consequences. Adults who engage in TMSI for positive reasons such as intimacy are more sexually satisfied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]