Sexting

What is Sexting?

Sexting is when someone shares sexual, naked or semi-naked images or videos of themselves or others, or sends sexually explicit messages. It can also mean sending explicit text messages.

They can be sent using mobiles, tablets, smartphones, laptops - any device that allows you to share media and messages.

Sexting may also be called:

Trading nudes
Dirties
Pic for Pic.

Why do young people sext ?

Joining in because they think that ‘everyone is doing it’.
To get attention and connect with new people on social media.
Boosting their self-esteem.
You may find it difficult to say no if somebody asks you for an explicit image, especially if the person asking is persistent.

What are the risks of sexting?

No control of images and how they’re shared.
When images are stored or shared online they become public.
Blackmail, bullying and harm.
An offender may threaten to share the pictures with the your family and friends unless you send money or more images.
Unwanted attention - Images posted online can attract the attention of sex offenders, who know how to search for, collect and modify images.
Emotional distress - Children can feel embarrassed and humiliated. If they're very distressed this could lead to depression, self-harm or worse.

IS SEXTING ILLEGAL?

Yes it is - When you’re under 18 it’s against the law for anyone to take or have a sexual photo of you – even if it’s a selfie.

doing the right thing

Take a look at the video on the right. Before you do that why not take time to see if you can answer the questions below..

To impress friends or girls do you think it's a good idea to take and share a semi nude selfie ?
Why is it a bad idea ? - give me some reasons.
Once posted online can you get the pictures of video back ?
Posting pictures can be dangerous for lots of reasons reason - tell me some of those reasons?

For Parents

Talk to your children

Parents, it is very important to talk to your children if you think they are involved in anything inappropriate online. Remember, every child is different and they may also be worried about what they have been doing.

Starting a conversation about sexting can be extremely difficult, but the NSPCC website has some great advice on how to strike up that first conversation. Click HERE to access the site.

NSPCC - Advice for parents

How to talk to your child about sexting.
What to do if your child has been affected by sexting.
Get an explicit image removed.
Make sure your child is supported.
Who else can help?

Getting Help now

Remember parents, the help available from the links below is for adults too.

Report abuse