June 16th marked the last official day serving for Rep. Anthony Weiner, following a massive sexting controversy that put the American Media on an almost complete standstill. Weiner resigned his position after continued pressure from all sides to exit politics.
Weiner’s situation calls into question a larger public debate and a need for everyone – teens and adults alike to draw strict digital lines. Ironically, a grown man should not have to be convinced that what goes onto the internet, stays on the internet; especially someone in such high public places. Unfortunately, the problem only permeates when such an immature act draws so much media attention.
The truth is, when it comes to digital communication – we could all use some more upbringing. SEXTING has, in a very short time, become a household word. And the fact that it has spread so quickly, only further illustrates the need for prevention work.
Urbandictionary.com defines Sexting:
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v: the act of text messaging someone in the hopes of having a sexual encounter with them later; initially casual, transitioning into highly suggestive and even sexually explicit
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If you’re analytical like me, here are some statistics about how pervasive this problem is:
That picture’s not as private as you think
- 22% of teen girls and 20% of teen boys have sent nude or semi-nude photos of themselves over the Internet or their phones.
- 22% of teens admit that technology makes them personally more forward and aggressive.
- 38% of teens say exchanging sexy content makes dating or hooking up with others more likely.
- 29% of teens believe those exchanging sexy content are “expected” to date or hook up.
- (All of the above are from CosmoGirl and the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, 2009.)
Unfortunately, there is no delete button on the internet. Once a text message is sent, there is literally no way to get it back. Time after time, young people are ostracized in schools for having sent a provocative message or picture. Examples like the Anthony Weiner Scandal prove that the need for education extends far past just teens as well.
In the case of teens, it’s more than just social destruction – it’s also ILLEGAL. Possession of sexually explicit photos can be legal grounds for child pornography – EVEN IF, the receiver is a minor as well.
If you receive a forwarded SEXT Message, immediately notify your parents. And parents, immediately notify each other, the school districts, and if needed, local law enforcement.
Sexting is usually instigated from Peer pressure, so the first step to prevention is to educate your children and yours about the dangers. The Anthony Weiner situation gives you a safe and open door to discuss this issue with your kids. So the next family dinner, the next car trip, the next family walk, make sure to open the doors to communication and let your kids explain to you what they know. It’s never too late to have a meaningful conversation with your kids.
Nicholas Barton, Marketing Director
Start Strong Wichita
