Sexting

Open Access: No

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine sexting behavior, specifically the prevalence of sexting, and its relationships with sociodemographic characteristics (i.e. gender, sexual orientation, and age) and psychological adjustment. To this end, a cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey. The sample consisted of 999 young adults (98% Italian, 76% female, 67.4% heterosexual) with a mean age of 24.47 years (SD=3.11). Results showed differences in sexting behavior according to gender and sexual orientation. Age was also associated with sexting behavior. These findings have important implications for clinical practice and future research. Awareness of sexting behavior and its relationships with sociodemographic characteristics can inform the development of targeted interventions to promote safe and ethical use of digital technologies in the realm of sexuality. Additionally, further research can delve into the psychological dynamics involved in sexting and identify risk and protective factors associated with its use.

Relevance

Though less prevalent, sext dissemination (sharing sexts outside the original target audience) without consent still occurs as part of young adults’ sexting behaviors, despite the potential negative risks associated with it.

Researchers found a “significant relationship between sext dissemination and psychological distress. Specifically, sext dissemination perpetration tends to be associated with low levels of emotional disturbance and an increase in symptoms related to hyperactivity and conduct disorder, while peer problems tend to be associated with an increase in sext dissemination victimization.”

Citation

Badenes-Ribera, L., Longobardi, C., & Fabris, M. A. (2024). Sext dissemination and mental health among young Italian adults. Sexual Health & Compulsivity, 31(3), 189–206. https://doi.org/10.1080/26929953.2024.2339216