Sexting uncensored| An exploratory study on the behaviors, experiences, and perceptions of sexting among college students

• Main Author: Abraham, Anju Elizabeth
• Language: EN
• Published: California State University, Fresno 2015
• Subjects: Social research|Behavioral psychology|Multimedia communications|Public health
• Online Access: http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1601678

<p>This study examined the practice of sexting (the exchange of nude or semi-nude photos through text messaging) among 401 undergraduate students ages 18 to 25 at California State University, Fresno. A computer survey with separate tracks for sexters and non-sexters differentiated data between the two groups. The researcher found that one in three students sexted. Pearson&rsquo;s &chi;² test indicated a statistical significance between female non-Hispanic White casual daters and sexting. Among key findings, a majority of sexters infrequently exchanged a small number of photos with their boyfriends or girlfriends. Face cropping and smartphone applications were used most often for protection against harmful effects. Less than a fifth of respondents had their sext forwarded without their consent or were bullied with the photo. Over half of the students that sexted perceived their sexting activity led to having sex with that person. Those who did not engage in sexting perceived sexters to be unaware of the risks attached to the practice and perceived sexting as inappropriate. The findings demonstrated a range of risky and protective behaviors, experiences, and perceptions exist among Fresno State students that have adopted or rejected the practice of sexting. Recommendations for future studies include further exploration on the sexting behaviors between relationship partners as well as the types of applications used to sext. </p>