Gadgetrepublic.com - News: Digital Life

A new study released by the US research body Pew Internet & American Life Project found that sexually suggestive nude or nearly nude images or videos are more likely to be sent or received by teens with intensive mobile phone usage.

"Teens explained to us how sexually suggestive images have become a form of relationship currency," said Amanda Lenhart, senior research specialist and author of the report.

"These images are shared as a part of or instead of sexual activity, or as a way of starting or maintaining a relationship with a significant other. And they are also passed along to friends for their entertainment value, as a joke or for fun."

Three situations

Sexting, says the study, happens in three scenarios: usually between couples, shared outside the relationship or exchanged between those not in a relationship but where one person hopes for one to form.

However, insight from teenagers found that there is pressure to engage in sexting: "Boys usually ask for them or start that type of conversation. My boyfriend, or someone I really liked asked for them. And I felt like if I didn't do it, they wouldn't continue to talk to me. At the time, it was no big deal. But now looking back it was definitely inappropriate and over the line," said one girl.

The combination of teenage sexuality and ever-present technology and the viral, instantaneous nature of text messaging had led to this phenomenon, says Lenhart.

"The desire for risk-taking and sexual exploration during the teenage years combined with a constant connection via mobile devices creates a 'perfect storm' for sexting.

"Teenagers have always grappled with issues around sex and relationships, but their coming-of-age mistakes and transgressions have never been so easily transmitted and archived for others to see."

By Marie Boran