Underage Sext
If you've been keeping tabs on the news lately, you may have noticed an alarming amount of stories detailing how teens are using cell phones to send sexual messages and pictures. Some of the headlines include:
Nude cell phone pics of 7th grader circulated around school
Teen facing felony charges over nude cell phone photos
These are understandably scary headlines, but don't go running to confiscate your child's cell phone just yet. Most kids use their cell phones wisely, sometimes even in life-saving circumstances.
Unfortunately, many kids don't realize how easily information can be spread from cell phone to cell phone, and from cell phones to the Internet; a picture meant for one person can end up being sent to hundreds or thousands of people. And, once it's out there, you can't get it back. Talk to your kids about what information and images are appropriate to send.
- Set rules and limits for cell phone use, including with whom your child may communicate and how long he or she may talk
- Review cell phone records for any unknown numbers and late night phone calls and texts
- Teach your child never to reveal cell phone numbers online
- Talk to your child about the possible consequences of sending sexually explicit images, including charges of possession and distribution of child pornography
Remind them that exploring their sexuality via technology is never a good idea. And if the above headlines are scaring you too much, remember that cell phones are just tools—the conversations you have now with your kids are what will determine how these tools are used.
