Navigating Safer Sexting
Realities and Risk Reduction for Teens
Sexting is a reality of the digital age, yet it remains one of the trickiest topics for parents and professionals to navigate with teens. While it’s important to inform young people about the risks of sexting, the best way to deter risk-taking behavior like sexting is rooted in clear communication and risk reduction. So, let’s talk about what sexting is, why teens engage in it, the risks involved, and—most importantly—how we can have meaningful conversations that actually resonate with them.
What is Sexting?
Sexting refers to the sharing of sexually suggestive or explicit messages, pictures, or videos via text or online platforms. It’s more common than many adults realize: studies suggest that around 1 in 5 teens have sent a sext, 1 in 3 have received one, and 1 in 7 have forwarded explicit content without the creator’s consent. Gender and age play a role—older teens are more likely to engage in sexting, and girls tend to receive more unsolicited sexts.
Real-World Risks
For many teens, sexting feels like just another way to explore relationships and intimacy. But the consequences—both emotional and legal—can be serious:
Loss of Control: Once an image is sent, there’s no way to guarantee where it will end up.
Emotional Impact: Exposure, embarrassment, and trust violations can lead to anxiety, depression, and even coercion or sextortion (using someone’s explicit photo to blackmail them).
Legal Concerns: Many teens don’t realize that creating, possessing, or sharing explicit images of a minor—even if they’re the minor in question—can be considered child pornography. In some cases, this has led to felony charges or placement on the sex offender registry.
It’s also important to note that sometimes there are no consequences at all. Many young exchange explicit photos or videos and they don’t get caught or share them outside of their relationship. While it’s important to focus on the potential impacts, realistically we know that there are times when sexting actually works out fine for young people.
Replacing Fear Tactics with Real Talk
We know that scaring teens into compliance doesn’t work. It often backfires, making them less likely to seek help if something does go wrong. Instead, we should focus on equipping them with accurate information and practical tools to navigate this aspect of growing up in a digital world.
Just like we talk about digital privacy and online safety, sexting should be part of a larger conversation about responsible technology use. Many teens don’t fully understand the nuances of sexting—what counts as sexting, how it can escalate, and how to minimize risk if they choose to engage in it.
How to Start the Conversation
These discussions don’t have to be one big, awkward talk. Instead, keep the lines of communication open:
Have the conversation - even if you don't think sexting hasn’t affected teens in your community
Be specific - teens may or may not know what sexting entials
Explain the potential consequences - but avoid scare tactics (they don’t work and often prevent teens from asking for help)
Share risk reduction strategies - The least risky behavior is to not sext at all. However, teens may still engage in sexting anyway…
Risk Reduction: A Realistic Approach
The safest option? Not sexting at all. But just like with sexual activity, substance use, or other risk-taking behaviors, some teens will still engage. Rather than ignoring this reality, we can give them harm-reduction strategies to help them stay safer:
Consent and Boundaries: Make sure both parties are fully consenting and on the same page about sending and receiving explicit content. Never share private content that has been shared with you, with other people.
Anonymity Matters: Never include your face and avoid including other identifying details like tattoos, piercings, unique jewelry, or recognizable backgrounds.
Think Before You Send: Would you be okay if this image were made public? If not, reconsider.
Turn Off Location Data: Geotagging can unintentionally reveal personal details.
Know How to Get Help: If someone is pressuring, threatening, or blackmailing, document evidence and tell a trusted adult.
Sexting is a complex issue, but our response doesn’t have to be. By fostering open conversations, setting realistic expectations, and equipping teens with knowledge, we empower them to make informed, safer choices. The goal isn’t just to prevent risky behavior—it’s to create a space where teens feel supported and prepared for the realities of digital life.
Want to learn more? Contact me for more information or to schedule a live workshop on sexting, teen relationships, or other topics that support healthy adolescent development.
