‘Sexting,’ parents talk to your teens

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

By Diana Sharp
Editor
dsharp@galioninquirer.com

Every parent concerned for their children’s welfare should know how to talk with their children on the topic of ‘sexting.’

‘Sexting’ involves the distribution of graphic sexual messages or photos by cell phone.

The potential for this activity to affect one’s life negatively is great; when it involves a minor on either end of the exchange, it may change one’s life forever. If convicted criminally, an offender could have a reporting requirement for 20 or more years as a sex offender.

Readers may already be familiar with the story of one Cincinnati teen, Jessica Logan.

This past spring at the age of 18, she hanged herself over a ‘sexting’ incident that left her feeling depressed.

Her needless death resulted from suffering harassment from high school classmates after her ex-boyfriend distributed photos exchanged by cell phone.

The emotional and psychological damage that an event like ‘sexting’ can have is great, but there are steps one can take to ward off such scars.

Talk with one’s children.

The first recommendation one can make to children is not to take or send nude or sexually suggestive photos in the first place.

Teens could be charged with producing or distributing child pornography.

As a parent, one may choose to discuss the non-legal consequences that involve the threat to future employment and reputation. ‘Sexting’ can be done on any media including E-mail and the Web; therefore, photos can be archived and stored and later come back to haunt you.

Regardless of the reason, flirting or impulsive behavior, don’t take the pictures to begin with.

Teens should not send photos they receive. If a teen has received a photo, encourage them to talk about it, if not with a parents, then another trusted adult, e.g. a teacher.

Stay calm. Encourage them to tell the full story. If the picture is from a friend or someone they know, then someone needs to talk to that friend so he or she knows ‘sexting’ is against the law.

If you’ve had the talk and the photos keep coming, the teen and a parent might have to speak with the friend’s parents, school authorities or the police.

If parents want to learn more of how to protect their children against ‘sexting,’ call on local law enforcement or school administrators for guidance. If one aware of ‘sexting’ that is happening, please contact local law enforcement.

For more facts regarding ‘sexting’ visit www.connectsafely.org.