Sexting Among Teens Means Risk [STUDY]

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Wary of getting your child a cell phone? A new study shows that teens who “sext” aren't leaving it to just that.

The study of nearly 2,000 teens found that those that sexted – sending explicit pictures or text messages – were more likely to engage in sexual activity, raising their risks for sexually transmitted diseases.

“No one's actually going to get a sexually transmitted disease because they're sexting,” Dr. Eric Rice, a researcher from the School of Social Network at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, told Reuters. “What we really wanted to know is, is there a link between sexting and taking risks with your body? And the answer is a pretty resounding 'yes.'”

The study showed that 15% of teens in grades nine through 12 who were a part of the study and had a handheld device said they sexted, while 50% admitted to knowing someone who has or does sext. The majority of the study group did not partake in sexting.

What does this mean for parents? Take the opportunity and use sexting as a way to discuss more difficult subjects with teens. Explain to younger children that inappropriate photos or texts can be considered pornography and against the law. Safe practices now may lead to better phone etiquette in later years.

For now, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers several methods to talking with your children about social media and sexting.