Sexting and Its Impact on Teens
Carla Smith
Beulah High School
What seems so harmless in the beginning may turn out to be your worst nightmare, or so seems, that many teens are beginning to realize as the “sexting” trend continues to grow.
Contrary to popular belief “sexting”, or sexual texting, proves not only to me immoral and embarrassing if explicit pictures are leaked, but also in most cases illegal.
“Sexting” by definition is the exchange of graphic or pornographic images through text message. Until both parties reach the age of 18, it is completely illegal.
Sexting participants can be charged with possession and distribution of child pornography, which is a felony, regardless of their age group. Adults in these cases can be added to the list of registered sex offenders and face up to seven years in prison.
The real question is why? Why do young adults (and in some cases adults) exploit themselves in such a manner?
Honestly the thrill of sending explicit images is not worth the consequences. “I would probably say the most common reason why most people sext is because they want to be accepted,” said journalism student Kali Smith. Regardless of the media’s pressure on young adults to engage in promiscuous activities, one should have at least the tiniest sense of self respect in order to refuse these activities. People (teens especially) have reverted to demoralization, which eventually leads to acts like sexting. This lack of a sense of care has truly lead to the downward spiral of increasing sext rates.
It’s a personal responsibility to avoid these matters. Remember: it is only up to you to practice safe text.
Beulah High School
What seems so harmless in the beginning may turn out to be your worst nightmare, or so seems, that many teens are beginning to realize as the “sexting” trend continues to grow.
Contrary to popular belief “sexting”, or sexual texting, proves not only to me immoral and embarrassing if explicit pictures are leaked, but also in most cases illegal.
“Sexting” by definition is the exchange of graphic or pornographic images through text message. Until both parties reach the age of 18, it is completely illegal.
Sexting participants can be charged with possession and distribution of child pornography, which is a felony, regardless of their age group. Adults in these cases can be added to the list of registered sex offenders and face up to seven years in prison.
The real question is why? Why do young adults (and in some cases adults) exploit themselves in such a manner?
Honestly the thrill of sending explicit images is not worth the consequences. “I would probably say the most common reason why most people sext is because they want to be accepted,” said journalism student Kali Smith. Regardless of the media’s pressure on young adults to engage in promiscuous activities, one should have at least the tiniest sense of self respect in order to refuse these activities. People (teens especially) have reverted to demoralization, which eventually leads to acts like sexting. This lack of a sense of care has truly lead to the downward spiral of increasing sext rates.
It’s a personal responsibility to avoid these matters. Remember: it is only up to you to practice safe text.