The article I read on the Jamestown Sun web page prompted me to think once again about communicating with our teens and/or tweens about the dangers of sexting. In speaking to my teens about the topic, there is the initial blushing because the word “sex” worked its way into the conversation but then we discuss the concept surrounding the dangers involved with sexting. I’ve tried to impress upon them both that no matter what it is that is sent out, whether it be a verbal statement, an email or an inappropriate picture – once it’s part of the electronic world, there’s no guarantee how it will be received or disseminated.
The article states that 1 in 5 teenagers have sent a “sext” message. Although the survey details aren’t shared, if you live in a neighborhood such as I do that has households with teenagers in most homes – which house contains the one “sexting” teen? What rules have you set up with your kids regarding the technology they use, including their cell phones?