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Research has shown that sexting—the practice of sending, receiving, and forwarding sexual messages on digital media services—is associated with poor mental health. However, few studies have moved beyond cross-sectional designs, demonstrating that individuals who engage in sexting differ in mental health from those who do not. The purpose of our study was to investigate whether sexting was associated with increases in depression symptoms and conduct problems over time. We analyzed data from three rounds of the longitudinal MyLife study among Norwegian adolescents (n = 3,000). The participants completed e-questionnaires containing instruments on sexting and mental health at three annual assessments. Random intercept cross-lagged panel models were estimated to examine the effect of sexting on within-person changes in mental health, measured one year later. We also examined the potential reverse order of the effects. In accordance with findings from cross-sectional research, the analyses showed that boys who frequently engaged in sexting also reported more depression symptoms and conduct problems. For girls, we found only a significant between-person association for sexting and depression symptoms. However, sexting was not predictive of changes in depression symptoms or conduct problems over time. On the contrary, conduct problems predicted increased sexting scores but only for girls. Our results suggest that efforts to reduce sexting may not prevent mental health problems among young people. Intervention efforts should thus redirect attention from sexting as a driver of individual mental health problems to educating adolescents on how to perform safe and responsible sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The realm of 3D computer vision and graphics has experienced exponential growth recently, enabling the creation of realistic virtual environments and digital representations of real-world objects. Central to this progression are 3D reconstruction methods that facilitate the virtualization of shape, color, and surface details of real objects. Current methods predominantly employ neural scene representations, which despite their efficacy, grapple with limitations such as necessitating a high number of captured images and the complexity of transforming these representations into explicit geometric forms. An alternative strategy that has gained traction is the deployment of methods such as physically-based differentiable rendering (PBDR) and inverse rendering. These approaches require fewer viewpoints, yield explicit format results, and ensure a smoother transition to other representation methods. To meaningfully assess the performance of different 3D reconstruction methods, it is imperative to utilize benchmark scenes for comparison. Despite the existence of standard objects and scenes within the literature, there is a noticeable deficiency in real-world benchmark data that concurrently captures camera, illumination, and scene parameters — all critical to high-fidelity 3D reconstructions using PBDR and inverse rendering-based methods. In this research, we introduce a methodology for capturing real-world scenes as virtual scenes, integrating illumination parameters alongside camera and scene parameters to enhance the veracity of virtual representations. In addition, we introduce a set of ten real-world scenes, along with their virtual counterparts, designed as benchmarks. These benchmarks encompass a fundamental variety of geometric constructs, including convex, concave, plain, and mixed surfaces. Additionally, we demonstrate the 3D reconstruction results of state-of-the-art 3D reconstruction methods employing PBDR in real-world scenes, using both established methodologies and our proposed one. • Recent advancements in computer vision and graphics enabled realistic virtual scenes. • Cutting-edge computer graphics techniques can model a given virtual environment. • The latest virtual scene optimization methods can be applied to real-world scenes. • Combining multiscale L1 loss with structural losses improves reconstruction accuracy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teenagers use the Internet to obtain and exchange information in multiple fields, including about taboo subjects such as sexuality. Our objectives were to determine the prevalence and vulnerability factors related to active cybersexuality among teenagers aged between 15 and 17 years in western Normandy. This was an observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study integrated into sexual education classes for teenagers between 15 and 17 years old. An anonymous questionnaire, designed for the study, was given at the beginning of each session. The study had a 4-month duration and involved 1,208 teenagers. The results revealed that 66% of them engaged in cybersex, with sexting being the most widespread practice: 21% sent such sexts, 60% received such sexts, and 12% of boys shared such texts with others. Other practices, such as dedipix, dating websites, and skin parties, were more marginal, but 12% of teenagers had met someone in real life after meeting them first online. A history of experiencing violence, a lack of parental control, female gender, poor self-esteem, and consuming toxic drugs were associated with a higher risk of cybersexuality with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.63, 1.95, 2.07, 2.27, and 2.66, respectively. Number of friends on social networks >300 and daily viewing of pornography were also strongly associated with cybersexuality with an OR of 2.83 and 6.18, respectively. This study shows that cybersex is practiced by two thirds of teens. Vulnerability factors most strongly associated with cybersexuality were female gender, poor self-esteem, consuming toxic drugs, number of friends on social networks >300, and daily viewing of pornography. Cybersexuality involves risks (social exclusion, bullying, dropout, poor self-esteem, breakdown) that are possible to prevent by highlighting this theme during sexual education classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Use of solution-processed MWCNT/ Cr 2 O 3 as cost-effective HTMs and protective layer. • Evaluate of lifetime, transfer and recombination processes of charges at the interfaces by electrochemical techniques. • Incorporation of the Cr 2 O 3 into MWCNT by suppressing the hysteresis and interfacial recombination boosted the PCE from 12.22% to 16.29%. • Attaining excellent stability for the unencapsulated device with just dropping 0.32 % of its initial performances for over 50 days. Utilization of systems that can bypass costly materials and methods and have long-term stability is critical for the commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Since hole transport materials (HTM) are the major costly layers in PSCs, finding a suitable replacement would be advantageous. Two types of mesoporous PSCs were fabricated using the solution-processed Cr 2 O 3 in pure and composite form with multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT/Cr 2 O 3) as dopant-free, hydrophobic HTM layers. Incorporation of the Cr 2 O 3 into MWCNT rendered improved morphological characteristics and better energy level alignment, facilitating the extraction of holes. Furthermore, such a modification suppresses the hysteresis and interfacial recombination of charges, resulting in a device with long-term stability and the PCE boosted from 12.22 % (bare Cr 2 O 3) to 16.29 % (MWCNT/Cr 2 O 3 nanocomposite). The reason for the increased efficiency of the composite layer than bare Cr 2 O 3 is the decrease of interfacial recombination of charges proved by various electrochemical analysis. The lifetime and processes of transfer and recombination of charges in the interfacial contact as well as hole mobility were explored through various electrochemical techniques. As a result, this work not only demonstrates the potential application of MWCNT/Cr 2 O 3 as an HTM layer for realizing efficient PSC, but also provides a fundamental insight for achieving cost-effective photovoltaic devices with acceptable efficiencies and remarkable stability with just a 0.32 % drop of PCE after 50 days in relative humidity ∼ 40 % under one-sun illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting is a common form of sexual communication that is often considered normative and beneficial despite some research highlighting its negative social, psychological, and legal repercussions. Using protection motivation theory (PMT), this study examines how young adults weigh the pros and cons of sending consensual sexts, sexting under pressure, and deciding against sending sexts, and whether body image dissatisfaction interacts with any of the decision-making processes. In total, 906 participants (554, 61.14% women), aged 18–25 years (M = 21.65, SD = 2.01), completed an online measure of sexting behaviours, body image, and protection motivation. Overall, 71.41% of respondents ever sent a sext. Of those, 45.07% and 36.32% felt pressure to sext or sent a sext because of pressure. Further, 63.90% participants ever considered and decided not to send a sext. All models predicting various sexting behaviours were significant and provided a partial support for the PMT. Body image was a unique predictor of 'pressured' sexting but its interactions with the PMT subscales for pressured sexting and decisions against sexting were non-significant. Our study illustrates the need for increasing young people's self-efficacy and body image to improve their sexting agency and experience. • Protection motivation theory explains cognitive processes regarding sexting decisions. • Individuals downplay the risks of sexting and focus on benefits instead. • Body image dissatisfaction uniquely predicts pressured sexting behaviours. • Body image does not interact with any of the decision-making processes. • Lower self-efficacy predicts consensual and pressured sexting, and refusal to sext. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are highly successful for image super-resolution (SR). However, they often require sophisticated architectures with high memory cost and computational overhead, significantly restricting their practical deployments on resource-limited devices. In this paper, we propose a novel dynamic contrastive self-distillation (Dynamic-CSD) framework to simultaneously compress and accelerate various off-the-shelf SR models, and explore using the trained model for dynamic inference. In particular, to build a compact student network, a channel-splitting super-resolution network (CSSR-Net) can first be constructed from a target teacher network. Then, we propose a novel contrastive loss to improve the quality of SR images via explicit knowledge transfer. Furthermore, progressive CSD (Pro-CSD) is developed to extend the two-branch CSSR-Net into multi-branch, leading to a switchable model at runtime. Finally, a difficulty-aware branch selection strategy for dynamic inference is given. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed Dynamic-CSD scheme effectively compresses and accelerates several standard SR models such as EDSR, RCAN and CARN. [Display omitted] • A novel dynamic contrastive self-distillation (Dynamic-CSD) framework was proposed. • Dynamic-CSD can simultaneously compress and accelerate various SR models. • The Pro-CSD scheme further improves the performance of our CSD scheme. • We combined the dynamic inference with multi-branch SR models trained by Pro-CSD. • Dynamic-CSD allocate resources according to input, making top performance and speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Youths who enter emerging adulthood with a background of familial relations grounded in positive parent-child interactions are better equipped to cope with transitional stressors, to voice effectively their opinions with parents, and to resist engaging in risky activities. However, little is known about the longitudinal associations between positive parenting, filial self-efficacy beliefs and youths' engagement in sexting behaviors. This study examined if positive parenting (mothers' and fathers' reports at children ages 13, 14, and 15) were related to youths' engagement in sexting behaviors (child's reports at age 19) both directly and indirectly, through adolescents perceived filial self-efficacy beliefs (child's reports at age 18). Participants included 194 Italian children (M AgeAtTime1 = 13.54, 52.6% girls), their mothers (n = 193), and fathers (n = 150), who provided data across five waves over seven years. The mediation model was tested through a path analysis. Overall, results showed that, controlling for child gender and family SES, the effect of positive parenting on sexting behaviors was fully mediated by higher levels of perceived filial self-efficacy beliefs. The study reveals filial self-efficacy beliefs as central to the benefits conveyed to teens by parents in reducing their sexting behaviors. • Both environmental and individual factors shape sexting behaviors across youth development. • We examined the associations between positive parenting, filial self-efficacy, and sexting across five waves over seven years. • Higher positive parenting was associated with higher filial self-efficacy, which, in turn, lowered engagement in sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing threat of sexual extortion ("sextortion") has garnered significant attention in the news and by law enforcement agencies around the world. Foundational knowledge of prevalence and risk factors, however, is still nascent. The present study surveyed 16,693 respondents, distributed equally across 10 different countries, to assess prevalence of victimization and perpetration of threatening to disseminate intimate images. Weighted by gender, age, region, and population, 14.5% of respondents indicated at least one experience of victimization, while 4.8% of respondents indicated perpetration of the same. Demographic risk factors for perpetration and victimization were also assessed. Consistent with findings from other studies, men (15.7%) were 1.17 times more likely to report being victimized compared to women (13.2%), and 1.43 times more likely to report perpetration. LGBTQ+ respondents were 2.07 times more likely to report victimization compared to non-LGBTQ+ respondents, and 2.51 times more likely to report offending behaviors. Age was significantly associated, with younger participants more likely to report both victimization and perpetration experiences. The most common type of perpetrator, as reported by victims, was a former or current partner. Despite the strong likelihood of under-reporting given the topic area, the study found that experiencing threats to distribute intimate content is a relatively commonplace occurrence, impacting 1 in 7 adults. Implications for potential mitigation are discussed. • There is a dearth of literature on the prevalence of sextortion. • In a survey of 16,693 respondents, 14.5% reported victimization and 4.8% reported perpetration. • LGBTQ+, men, and younger respondents were more likely to report both victimization and perpetration. • Sextortion was least prevalent in the European countries surveyed. • Perpetrators of sextortion are most often current or former intimate partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Problematic online behaviors, including sexting, cyberbullying, and Internet gaming disorder (IGD), were associated with a higher risk of self-harm among adolescents. However, the independent effect on self-harm brought by each problematic online behavior remains unknown.Methods: This cross-sectional nationwide survey investigated a representative sample of 8446 Taiwanese adolescents (49.7 % female, mean age = 15.4 ± 1.8, ranging from 10 to 18) in the summer of 2021. We used self-reported questionnaires to assess adolescents' problematic online behaviors. 18-item Risk-Taking and Self-Harm Inventory was applied to evaluate their self-harm risks. Adolescents with score ≥ 7 were considered self-harm identified. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between problematic online behaviors and self-harm risks.Results: The prevalence of sexting, cyberbullying victimization, cyberbullying perpetration, and IGD was 1.3 %, 1.1 %, 0.9 %, and 0.7 %, respectively. Adolescents with sexting were associated with higher self-harm scores (β = 4.30, 95 % CI [3.35, 5.25]), so did adolescents with IGD (β = 3.33, 95 % CI [1.96, 4.71]), cyberbullying perpetration (β = 2.61, 95 % CI [1.03, 4.20]), and cyberbullying victimization (β = 1.40, 95 % CI [0.04, 2.76]). Also, sexting (OR = 5.16, 95 % CI [3.26, 8.07]) and IGD (OR = 3.11, 95 % CI [1.50, 6.15]) were associated with increased odds of identified self-harm behaviors.Conclusions: Sexting, cyberbullying victimization, cyberbullying perpetration, and IGD were all independently associated with an increased self-harm risk among adolescents. Among them, sexting was shown to be the most robust risk factor of identified self-harm behaviors. To prevent self-harm among adolescents, it is important to identify youth involved in problematic online behaviors, especially sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a broader context of increasing incidences of sexting-related backlashes resulting in victims' depression and, at times, suicide in Nigeria, this study examines the prevalence, trends, and mental health implications of sexting among 700 Nigerian social media users. With the help of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Sexting Behaviors and Motives Questionnaire, we found that 58% of respondents engaged in sexting, a high percentage given the cultural conservatism of Nigeria. In addition, more than 41% admitted forwarding or having another forward sexted images or messages without the victims' consent, increasing the risk of cyberbullying and subsequent mental health problems. In our study, we found a strong positive relationship between sexting and depression; the effects of sexting on depression differed for men and women: Men sexters exhibited higher depression levels than women. Our analysis, which employed descriptive, regression, and Structural Equation Model (SEM) methodologies, suggests that despite regional cultural disparities, sexting behaviors are surprisingly uniform across Nigeria. This study underscores the urgent need for informed strategies addressing digital privacy, security, and mental well-being in the context of sexting in Nigeria. • The study finds that 58% of Nigerian social media users engage in sexting. • Over 41% admit to forwarding sexts non-consensually, highlighting privacy concerns. • There is a correlation between sexting behaviors and symptoms of depression. • The study shows notable gender differences in sexting and depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A meta-analysis of 39 studies (110,380 participants) from 2009 to 2015 indicated that youth sexting increased over time. To inform current practice and policy initiatives, this meta-analytic update of studies since 2016 examined if rates of youth sexting have continued to rise and whether youth sexting differs by age, sex, sexting methods, and geographical location. Electronic searches were conducted in March 2020 in Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Web of Science, yielding 1,101 nonduplicate records. Studies were included if they provided prevalence of youth sexting and data collection occurred ≥2016. Literature review and data extraction were conducted by following established PRISMA guidelines. All relevant data were extracted by two independent reviewers. To calculate mean prevalence rates, random-effects meta-analyses were conducted. Twenty-eight studies (N = 48,024) met inclusion criteria. The estimated pooled prevalence rates were as follows: (1) sending (19.3%), (2) receiving (34.8%), and (3) forwarding sexts without consent (14.5%). These prevalence rates are statistically similar to studies with data collected before 2016. In recent studies, females receive sexts at a higher rate than males, older youth are more likely to send sexts, and younger and older adolescents receive sexts at similar rates. Youth sexting rates have likely plateaued. Sexting education initiatives should begin early and encourage safe, ethical, and respectful online behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore and understand the relationship between sexting behavior and adolescent mental health and well-being. A constructivist grounded theory study was conducted. Seventeen 18–22-year-old participants provided recollective and reflective accounts of sexting experiences throughout their adolescence. Engaging in the Culture of Teen Sexting materialized as the central process and title for the grounded theory that emerged. Six primary processes included Engaging in the Culture of Teen Sexting, Identifying Motivating Factors, Forming Perceptions and Feelings, Acknowledging and Managing Risks, Connecting Mental Health and Sexting, and Finding a Sexual Self. The findings suggested sexting is part of teen culture and normal adolescent sexual growth and development. Acknowledging sexting as a culture and normal part of sexual growth and development will assist pediatric nurse practitioners in engaging teens in conversations about sexting, helping them to navigate the risks of sexting and find healthy ways to manage sexting behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence and potential consequences of sexting make identifying youth who are most likely to engage in these behaviors important. Conduct problems (CP) are associated with sexual risk behavior in general, and with sexting in particular. This study explored whether childhood or adolescent CP were linked with sexting behaviors in adolescence and whether this link differed between boys and girls. Participants (N = 628; mean age = 17.4 years, SD = 0.98) from a longitudinal study of youth with and without childhood CP were asked about their lifetime engagement in four different sexting behaviors. Logistic regression models indicated that while childhood CP were not a significant predictor for sexting among young men, they were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of sending, receiving, and being forwarded sexts among young women. Adolescent CP were a significant predictor for sending and receiving sexts among both young men and women. Boys with adolescent CP were more likely to send and receive sexts. Girls with both childhood and adolescent CP were more likely to engage in sexting behaviors. These findings are in line with previous research linking both childhood and adolescent CP with sexual risk behaviors. • Youth with CP reported elevated levels of sexting. • Childhood CP were linked to a higher likelihood of sexting for girls but not boys. • Adolescent CP were linked to a higher likelihood of sexting for boys and girls. • Programs for safe sexting should consider the needs of girls with conduct problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine a new form of online fraud, which we refer to as Intimacy Manipulated Fraud Industrialization (IMFI). This type of fraud bears a strong resemblance to traditional online romance fraud and catfishing, but is "industrialized" through enterprise business practices, software platforms, and customer service processes. To gain a better understanding of this operation, we conducted an inductive analysis of publicly available testimonial and review data provided by current and prior employees of a specific company in the online customer service contract space. Companies hire individuals online to work as "chat moderators" or "customer service providers" who are told that their task is to advance engagement on social media platforms. In fact, they are being recruited as "sexting" workers, paid on a per-text basis to engage in intimate chatting with clients who believe they're interacting with individuals of the opposite gender on a dating site. The process is mediated via client management processes that monitor employee productivity and monetize all interactions between "clients" and "workers." The company executes these processes with great efficiency by algorithmically assigning multiple workers to individual clients and assembling background files on clients in real time. We find that workers serve as both exploiters of their clients as well as victims of the company they work for. The implications of our study could significantly impact how we address AI-generated online fraud in the future, shedding light on the complex dynamics at play within these fraudulent enterprises. • A new corporatized form of fraud is revealed as Intimacy Manipulated Fraud Industrialization (IMFI). • IMFI shares resemblances to catfishing and online romance scams. • IMFI's industrialization process shares elements with online romance scams but has unique differences. • IMFI and online romance scams both employ impression management, social engineering, and interpersonal deception. • Three primary phases are evident in the recruitment of potential workers by the IMFI company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new Multi-Objective Mantis Search Algorithm (MOMSA) to handle complex optimization problems, including real-world engineering optimization problems. The Mantis Search Algorithm (MSA) is a recently reported nature-inspired metaheuristic algorithm, and it has been inspired by the unique hunting behavior and sexual cannibalism of praying mantises. The proposed MOMSA algorithm employs the same underlying MSA mechanisms for convergence combined with an elitist non-dominated sorting approach to estimate Pareto-optimal solutions. In addition, MOMSA employs the crowding distance mechanism to enhance the coverage of optimal solutions across all objectives. To validate its performance, we conduct 29 case studies, encompassing twenty multi-objective benchmark problems (ZDT, DTLZ, and CEC 2009) and nine engineering design problems. Furthermore, MOMSA is applied to the IEEE-30 bus system, addressing both single- and multi-objective optimal power flow problems across eight distinct cases. Results are compared with some state-of-the-art approaches using various performance metrics such as GD, MS, IGD, and HV. The findings demonstrate MOMSA's ability to effectively balance convergence, diversity, and uniformity, providing valuable insights for decision-makers addressing complex problems. The source code of MOMSA is publicly accessible at https://www.mathworks.com/matlabcentral/fileexchange/159623-momsa-multi-objective-mantis-search-algorithm. • MOMSA: A Novel Multi-Objective Optimization Algorithm. • Enhancing Engineering Design through MOMSA. • Pareto-Optimal Front Maintenance by MOMSA. • MOMSA in Complex Power System Optimization. • Comparative Analysis with Leading Methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent sexting is often linked with negative peer outcomes, which are more pronounced for girls. However, existing research has generally mixed non-consensual sexting and consensual sexting, the latter of which could be even beneficial for adolescents' well-being. A longitudinal approach is necessary to address how the change in peer relationships may be the outcome of engaging in sexting, as well as its driver. Using a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model (RI-CLPM) on a large, national, quota-based sample of Czech adolescents (N = 1,102, 11–16 years, 48.3% female) over three waves of data collection, we investigate the reciprocal relationship -between consensual sexting and peer support. To ensure that the outcomes do not differ by gender, we also test a multigroup model. Our results reveal no longitudinal relationship between consensual sexting and peer support, even after accounting for gender and age differences. In line with other studies within the mental health area, our results add to the knowledge that consensual sexting is not detrimental to adolescents' well-being. Our results are thus important for parents and practitioners, because they support that sexting could be understood as a natural part of contemporary adolescent sexual development and, although engagement in sexting may be risky, it is not harmful. • Research suggests that peer relationships may be both the outcome and predictor of sexting engagement. • Regardless of gender differences, peer support and consensual sexting among adolescents are not related over time. • Along with research on mental health, we show that consensual sexting might not be as detrimental as previously thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting is an increasingly frequent phenomenon among adolescents, and it involves risky behaviors such as sextortion or even grooming. This study aims to analyze demographic, psychological, and cultural variables that may explain the nature of this phenomenon. The sample consisted of 471 adolescents from 12 to 18 years old from two countries, Spain and Mexico, with dissimilar levels of gender inequality. Results highlight important differences in sexting behavior between the two countries. We have found higher levels of sexting behaviors in Mexican adolescents (41.5 %) than in Spanish adolescents (24.6 %) as well as an earlier start in Mexican adolescents. Moreover, adolescents in Mexico engage in sexting more frequently. There are no differences, however, in age showing a growing pattern in the two countries, nor in gender, self-esteem or impulsivity. These results are interpreted from a cultural perspective and highlight the importance of studying the phenomenon of sexting within the framework of cultural influences, especially sexism. Considering cultural factors is necessary, in order to implement differential preventive strategies according to each culture. Prevention in countries with high inequality, such as Mexico, should be earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological advances have exploded in the new millennium. The Internet provides many opportunities to enrich the lives of youth by providing greater access to learning opportunities, valuable resources, and positive social interactions with peers. However, the Internet is a relatively new and unregulated entity that can also place children and adolescents at risk for a variety of negative and potentially dangerous exposures. One such risk is online sexual solicitations and interactions with older adolescents, peers, and adults. This continuing education article will explore online sexual solicitation of child and adolescents in terms of definition, epidemiology, predictors, consequences, and implications for practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyses the prevalence of sexting and the reasons and attitudes associated with its practice in adolescents with different cultural backgrounds (Colombia and Spain). The sample is made up of 489 Spaniards and 510 Colombians aged between 13 and 18 years. The results show that sexting is strongly influenced by gender and the country, in favor of men and Colombians respectively. The interaction between gender and country establishes that in Spain women and men practice sexting equally, while in Colombia men practice much more sexting than women. Although the practice of sexting increases progressively with age, the levels are higher among Colombian adolescents, especially after 15 years. According to the results, although both groups present a high risk for sexting, socio-cultural aspects and gender constitute differential variables to be taken into consideration. Therefore, it is necessary to design preventive strategies including cultural differences in relation to the sexuality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to gain more insight into the prevalence and associations of transactional sexting, which refers to the sending of self-made sexually explicit images or videos in exchange for something else. A survey was conducted among 2,626 high school students (n = 1,530 girls; 58.4% female) aged between 14 and 21 years (M = 16.14; SD = 1.02). We compared youth who engaged in transactional sexting and those who did not for a range of demographic and sexual health variables. Youth who engaged in transactional sexting were more likely to be male, to identify as a sexual minority, to have retaken a year of school, and to be sexually active, than those who did not. We also found associations with sexual risk behaviors. The results highlight the need for future research. Clinicians may screen for sexual health behaviors when counseling youth who have engaged in transactional sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The current study explores the effect of body dissatisfaction (both stable, trait-level and specific, state-based instances in daily life) on sexting behaviors, and the impact of sending and receiving sexts on body dissatisfaction levels in daily life. One hundred and forty-seven women aged 18–42 years completed baseline measures of body dissatisfaction and sexting (i.e., trait-level), and took part in a 7-day experience sampling period measuring sexting behaviors and body dissatisfaction 10 times daily (state-level data). No relationship was found between trait body dissatisfaction and general tendency to send sexts. However, participants were less likely to sext in general or as a result of pressure when they experienced heightened states of body dissatisfaction. When participants sent or received sexts, they experienced a momentary decrease in body dissatisfaction states. Affective factors associated with sexting behaviors may prove useful for understanding what perpetuates and prevents sexting. • No relation found between trait body dissatisfaction (BD) and sending sexts. • Trait BD was linked to pressured sexting and sexting for body image reinforcement. • Individuals were less likely to sext during heightened states of BD. • Participants were less likely to sext under pressure during heightened states of BD. • Sending/receiving sexts was associated with decreases in state BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate how demographic factors, dating, and sexual behaviors are related to both initial and changing rates of sexting over time, we examined sexting involvement among ethnically diverse adolescents over a 4-year period. A total of 1,042 participants from seven public high schools throughout southeast Texas (Dating it Safe study) were asked yearly about sexting involvement, as well as sexual and dating behaviors. Using latent growth curve modeling, results revealed that males and white participants had greater initial involvement in sexting compared with females and Hispanic and other ethnicities, respectively. In addition, we found that sexting significantly increased over the 4-year period. Finally, participants who had sex and who had more dating partners at each wave were significantly more likely to be involved in sexting than their counterparts, even after controlling for their initial sexting involvement. Involvement in sexting increases steadily from adolescence into emerging adulthood. The present study extends prior research by identifying a longitudinal association between sexting and sexual activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tremendous progresses have been made in remote sensing image captioning (RSIC) task in recent years, yet there still some unresolved problems: (1) facing the gap between the visual features and semantic concepts, (2) reasoning the higher-level relationships between semantic concepts. In this work, we focus on injecting high-level visual-semantic interaction into RSIC model. Firstly, the semantic concept extractor (SCE), end-to-end trainable, precisely captures the semantic concepts contained in the RSIs. In particular, the visual-semantic co-attention (VSCA) is designed to grain coarse concept-related regions and region-related concepts for multi-modal interaction. Furthermore, we incorporate the two types of attentive vectors with semantic-level relational features into a consensus exploitation (CE) block for learning cross-modal consensus-aware knowledge. The experiments on three benchmark data sets show the superiority of our approach compared with the reference methods. • We propose an end-to-end trainable network architecture for remote sensing image captioning task, aiming to extract explicit high-level semantic from remote sensing image, learn discriminative cross-modal linguistic-aware features, and exploit cross-modal alignment. • To capture the explicit semantic concepts, semantic concept extractor is designed to generate a series of semantic words. The designed network based on visual features and semantic concepts is effective for visual-semantic features extracting. • For modeling the visual features and semantic concepts, a visual-semantic co-attention module with two parallel attentive branches is designed, which learns the linguistic awareness between visual features and enhances the region-related semantic contents. • In order to facilitate the alignment between cross-modal features, a consensus exploitation is devised for exploring the multi-modal consensus-aware representations based on the constructed concept correlation graph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyber dating abuse (CDA) is a growing problem with serious consequences for adolescents, hence the importance of understanding its relationship to other variables for developing more effective prevention strategies. The current study aimed first to analyze CDA, bullying, sexting and myths of romantic love depending on sex (girls vs boys), country (Spain vs Latin American countries) and religiosity (high vs low). The second objective was to investigate the explanatory factors of CDA, examining variables associated with bullying, sexting and myths of romantic love, using structural equation modeling (SEM). The sample consisted of 3264 adolescents between 14 and 18 years old (52% girls; 32% Spanish; 68% Latin Americans). Findings showed that boys had more bullying engagement, sexting, and assumption of myths of romantic love. The highly religious group presented less sexting engagement. The results also revealed that CDA is associated with sexting and that myths of romantic love have mediational effects. Prevention programs should include strategies to help adolescents use the Internet safely and identify any type of abusive behavior both among peers and in a romantic relationship, taking into account the peculiarities of virtual interactions. • Boys show more bullying, sexting, and myths of romantic love than girls. • Results support the direct effect of sexting engagement on cyber dating abuse. • Myths of romantic love have mediational effects on cyber dating abuse. • Violence between peers and partners could be normalized by adolescents. • Community based violence prevention programs should take a wider approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• There is a positive relationship between online grooming, juvenile victimization, and sexting. • Victims of online grooming showed higher levels of sexting, sextortion, and other juvenile victimization. • There are higher scores of sexting and online grooming during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. • Peer/sibling victimization and sexual victimization predicted online grooming. Background: Online grooming is the sexual solicitations and interactions between an adult and a minor, aiming to sexually abuse or obtain sexual material for the sexual satisfaction of themselves or others. Experiencing victimization during childhood or adolescence increases the probability of exposure to other types of victimization. Objectives: This study analyses the relationship between grooming, other types of juvenile victimization, and consensual sexting. We compare victims and non-victims of online grooming concerning sexting, sextortion, juvenile victimization, and online parental control. We also aim to identify the prevalence of online grooming in the present sample during and after the COVID-19 pandemic confinement and the impact of other types of juvenile victimization on grooming. Participants: The sample comprised 106 Portuguese adolescents (57 boys and 49 girls) aged 12 to 15. Method: Participants answered the sociodemographic questionnaire that contemplates online parental control and sextortion items, the Questionnaire for Online Sexual Solicitations and Interactions with Adults, the Sexting Questionnaire, and the Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire. Results: The results showed a positive correlation between online grooming, juvenile victimization, and sexting, as well as statistically significant differences between victims and non-victims of online grooming. Victims showed higher levels of sexting, sextortion, and other juvenile victimization. It also revealed higher levels of sexting and online grooming during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. Predictive validity showed that peer/sibling victimization and sexual victimization predicted online grooming. Conclusions: This study promotes a better understanding of online grooming by exploring the association between different types of victimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing proportion of adolescents appear to see sexting as something normal, despite the serious consequences it can have on their well-being. Only little is known about the factors that facilitate teens' participation, and even less about whether the same factors influence different types of sexting behaviors – sending, receiving, forwarding, or receiving via an intermediary – in different ways. Here we analyze whether the need for popularity, participation in cybergossip, social competence, the level of normalization of sexting and willingness to sext predicts to what extent teens participate in the activity, while at the same time investigating how gender influences this participation. In total, 1431 (46.4% female) Spanish adolescents, aged 11–18 years, participated in a two-wave longitudinal study with a time lag of four months. All factors under study predicted involvement in all four sexting behaviors, but the relative importance of the factors differed depending on the behavior, and between boys and girls. Participation in cybergossip and the need for popularity were the two most important factors for girls. For boys, the levels of normalization and willingness to sext mattered most. Our results highlight the importance of including these factors and accounting for gender differences in sexting prevention strategies. • It is important to differentiate sending, receiving, forwarding and receiving sexts. • Being involved in sexting seems to increase the probability of continuing to engage in it. • Cybergossip and need for popularity are important factors for sexting in girls. • Normalization and willingness to sext have a greater predictive power among boys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although research on adolescent sexting—the sending of self-made sexually explicit pictures through digital media—has increased in recent years, prior studies have primarily focused on older youth and the act of sending of such images. Little is known about the experiences of early adolescent sexual minority youth, who might be particularly vulnerable to abusive forms of sexting. To address this gap in the literature, we aim to investigate differences in the prevalence of a wide range of sexting behaviors among a convenience sample of heterosexual and sexual minority early adolescents. A survey was conducted among 3,109 adolescents (53.5% girls; n = 1,647) aged between 12 and 15 years (mean = 13.01 years; standard deviation =.83). We examined differences in sexting behavior by sexual orientation, controlling for gender, age, and amount of Internet use. The results show that sexual minority youth were more likely to have sent, received, and asked for sexting images. They were also more likely to have experienced pressure to send sexually explicit pictures. There were no associations between sexual minority status and the perpetration of nonconsensual forms of sexting. Several types of sexting were not uncommon among heterosexual and sexual minority youth. Clinicians and counselors should be aware that sexual minority youth are more likely to experience, but not to perpetrate, abusive sexting behaviors. The results underscore the need for educational efforts to focus on resilience training for sexual minority adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore whether sexting by young adolescent girls and boys is associated with adverse life experiences including exploitative or violent sexual relationships. Cross-sectional, anonymous survey of a convenience sample of minor adolescents younger than age 18 years recruited while waiting for care in clinics affiliated with a children's hospital in a low-resource, high-poverty, urban community. Five hundred fifty-five adolescents aged 14-17 years, 63% girls and 37% boys. We measured sexting by asking, "Have you ever sent a sexually suggestive or naked picture of yourself to another person through text or e-mail?" The survey also measured risk behaviors, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence (IPV), and arrest and included a validated depression scale. Mean age was 15.6 ± 1.1 years; 59% were Hispanic, 28% were black; 44% of girls and 46% of boys ever had sex; 24% of girls and 20% of boys ever sent a sext. More girls than boys reported sexual abuse (16% vs 3%; P <.01), IPV victimization (15% vs 7%; P <.01), and depression (33% vs 17%; P <.01). More boys than girls reported arrest (15% vs 7%; P <.01). Independent associations with sexting for girls were: ever had sex (odds ratio [OR], 4.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.29-9.19; P <.001); sexual abuse (OR, 3.81; 95% CI, 1.80-8.05; P <.001); IPV victim (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.11-6.62; P <.05), and for boys: ever had sex (OR, 4.26; 95% CI, 1.47-12.32; P <.01); sexual abuse (OR, 38.48; 95% CI, 1.48-999.46; P <.05); IPV perpetration (OR, 16.73; 95% CI, 1.64-170.75; 95% CI, P <.05), as well as cannabis use, older age, other race, and arrest. For young adolescents, sexting is independently associated with exploitative and abusive sexual relationships including sexual abuse and IPV with similarities and differences in predictors of sexting for girls and boys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Young people use online communication technologies to provide intimate information to each other and exchange sexual content and messages. When such information is misunderstood or misused by others, it may result in harmful experiences and negative psychosocial outcomes. In the present study, we hypothesized that online sexual engagement of adolescents and early emerging adults is indirectly connected to a lower psychosocial well-being via an increased number of sexual victimization experiences on the Internet. Based on a representative sample of 1033 German Internet users (14–20 years), we found that sexting willingness and 'sexy' self-presentation were associated with a higher number of online sexual victimization experiences, which, in turn, was related to higher loneliness, lower life satisfaction, and worse mental health. For all mediation paths, we identified stable indirect effects. The findings expand previous research on Internet usage, online behavior, and psychosocial well-being by explicitly focusing on the sexual engagement of young Internet users. • Nearly one fourth has experienced sexual victimization online at least once. • Non-heterosexual young users were more sexually victimized online. • Sexting willingness was associated with less well-being via more victimization. • "Sexy" self-presentation was associated with less well-being via more victimization. • Prevention needs to raise awareness to treat intimate information online carefully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although adolescent sexting often takes place within the context of adolescents' romantic relationships, little is known about how the behavior is associated with their relationship perceptions. This study addresses this gap in the research by focusing on the associations between adolescents' engagement in sexting and their perceptions of intimacy, passion, commitment, and verbal conflict within their current romantic relationships. We report on a survey that was conducted in the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium among 657 adolescents (n girls = 415; 63.3%) between 14 and 18 years old (M age = 16.41; SD age = 0.94) who indicated that they were in a romantic relationship at the time that the survey was administered. We captured the dimensions of intimacy, passion, and commitment as defined by Sternberg's triangular theory of love. The logistic regression analysis revealed that engagement in sexting within a romantic relationship was significantly linked to higher perceptions of passion within the relationship. There was also a positive association between perceptions of verbal conflict and adolescents' engagement in sexting. No differences were found with regards to commitment and intimacy when comparing those who engaged in sexting and those who did not. The results suggest that associations between sexting and relationship satisfaction are limited, and that sending sexts could function as a way to express feelings among adolescents who have a need for sexual and physical proximity within their romantic relationships. • Little is known about the role sexting plays within adolescent romantic relationships. • We address this gap by investigating sexting from the perspective of the Triangular Theory of Love. • Sexting was significantly linked with higher perceptions of passion. • No associations were found between sexting and emotional intimacy and commitment. • Link between sexting and relationship satisfaction might be limited for adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescents' involvement in online sexual behaviors is influenced by their developmental need to explore, define, and assert their own sexual identity. Among these behaviors, engaging in sexting behaviors has been shown to have negative consequences for adolescents' well-being because it increases the risk of exposure to different forms of online victimization. Based on these considerations, the present study aimed to examine the associations between two types of sexting behaviors, namely, verbal and visual sexting, and three specific dimensions of adolescents' sexuality, namely, their perceived sex drive, sexual self-concept, and sexual orientation. Next, we tested the hypothesis that involvement in sexting behaviors might be a mediator of the link between sexuality dimensions and exposure to online unwanted sexual solicitations, and cyberbullying victimization. The sample consisted of 653 high school students (66.9% females, Mean age = 16.31, SD = 1.34). We found both verbal and visual sexters to be older, have a stronger sex drive, and sexual self-concept than non-involved adolescents (i.e., non-sexters; while visual sexters were more likely to report non-heterosexual orientation than were verbal sexters and non-sexters. Further, involvement sexting behaviors increased the risk of exposure to both cyberbullying victimization and unwanted online sexual solicitations. Regression analysis showed visual sexting acted as a mediator of the links between the sexuality dimensions and both forms of online victimization. These findings have practical implications for the development of programs aimed at educating adolescents and their caregivers about the negative consequences of the uncontrolled online sharing of visual sexts, as well as providing involved adolescents with the skills to cope with these consequences. • We examine sexuality dimensions in relation with sexting. • Sexting is predicted by sex-drive, self-concept, and orientation. • Sexting mediates their link with online victimization. • Visual sexting is related to different form of victimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study examined the longitudinal and reciprocal relationships between sexting and two types of online victimization among minors: sexual solicitations by adults and cyberbullying. The sample consisted of 1497 minors between the ages of 12 and 14 at time 1, who completed measures on sexting, sexual solicitations, and cyberbullying at the beginning of the study and again at the follow-up, one year later. The prevalence during the previous year was 7.6% and 17.5% for sexting at times 1 and 2 (respectively), 7% and 15% at times 1 and 2 for sexual solicitation, and 49.4% and 46.4% at times 1 and 2 for cyberbullying. The results show that minors' participation in sexting at time 1 predicted a significant increase in both sexual solicitations and cyberbullying during the follow-up; sexual solicitations and cyberbullying were both related to increased participation in sexting behavior one year later. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings. Highlights • Sexting predicts increased sexual solicitation over a one-year period. • Sexting predicts increased cyberbullying victimization over a one-year period. • Online victimization predicts increased sexting after one year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Sexting (i.e. the sending and receiving of sexually explicit images via apps or phones) is increasingly common among young adults. However, specific concerns relate to the potential social and legal implications of non-consensual sext dissemination. Whilst previous research has investigated the prevalence of non-consensual dissemination, motivations for engaging in non-consensual dissemination are not well understood. In a large convenience sample of young Australian adults (N = 505, M age = 21, SD = 5, 67% female), we tested the hypothesis that sext dissemination is associated with positive subjective norms and personal attitudes towards sext dissemination, and dark triad personality traits of Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism. We found four unique predictors of increased likelihood of non-consensual dissemination: being sexually active, having received a disseminated sext, more strongly normalising that sexts are usually disseminated or seen by others, and stronger positive attitudes towards disseminating sexts as being funny; and one unique predictor of decreased likelihood: having personally-experienced negative consequences from sending sexts. No independent relationship with dark triad traits was found, although these predictors may be proxies for dark triad-related dissemination motivations. These findings suggest possible explanatory mechanisms for non-consensual dissemination and directions for future research including image context and dissemination circumstances. Highlights • We found five predictors of non-consensual sext dissemination. • Positive predictors include sexual activity and receiving disseminated sexts. • Positive subjective norms and attitudes are also sext dissemination predictors. • Personal consequences from sending sexts was the only negative predictor. • No independent relationship found with dark triad traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) involves three key behaviors: the non-consensual taking or creation of nude or sexual images; the non-consensual sharing or distribution of nude or sexual images; and threats made to distribute nude or sexual images. IBSA is becoming increasingly criminalized internationally, representing an important and rapidly developing cybercrime issue. This paper presents findings of the first national online survey of self-reported lifetime IBSA perpetration in Australia (n = 4053), with a focus on the extent, nature, and predictors of perpetration. Overall, 11.1% (n = 411) of participants self-reported having engaged in some form of IBSA perpetration during their lifetime, with men significantly more likely to report IBSA perpetration than women. With regard to the nature of perpetration, participants reported targeting men and women at similar rates, and were more likely to report perpetrating against intimate partners or ex-partners, family members and friends than strangers or acquaintances. Logistic regression analyses identified that males, lesbian, gay or bisexual participants, participants with a self-reported disability, participants who accepted sexual image-based abuse myths, participants who engaged in or experienced sexual self-image behaviors, and participants who had a nude or sexual image of themselves taken, distributed, and/or threatened to be distributed without their consent were more likely to have engaged in some form of IBSA perpetration during their lifetime. Highlights • 1 in 10 (11.1%) of Australians aged 16–49 years surveyed, engaged in Image-Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA) perpetration. • Men were significantly more likely than women to report engaging in any IBSA perpetration. • Gender, sexuality and disability demographics were significantly related to IBSA perpetration. • Attitudes, sexual 'selfies', and IBSA victimization, were also significantly related to IBSA perpetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of technology has dramatically changed the way sexual violence is perpetrated and experienced. Understanding the context of image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) and risk factors associated with perpetration are key to effective prevention efforts. The present study explores three IBSA behaviours—coerced sexting, non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, and cyberflashing—to examine the degree of victim-perpetrator overlap and what risk factors from the extant sexual violence literature are relevant to each behaviour. Emerging adults (n = 541; 69% female, 31% male) were recruited from a local university in Nova Scotia and the broader community (not specific to Nova Scotia) and reported their perpetration and victimization experiences with the three forms of IBSA. Participants also completed measures relating to their offense-supportive attitudes, dark triad traits, sadism, sexual compulsivity, impulsivity, and substance use. Results indicated substantial victim-perpetrator overlap for non-consensual dissemination of intimate images and cyberflashing. Victim-perpetrators demonstrated a pattern of higher scores across all risk-related measures, the magnitude of which differed across IBSA behaviours. These findings suggest that the broader literature on sexual offending is relevant to understanding IBSA and fits with the wider literature that suggests overlap between victimization and perpetration. • There is considerable victim-perpetrator overlap across all three forms of IBSA, especially cyberflashing. • IBSA victim-perpetrators tend to score higher on risk factors associated with traditional forms of sexual offending. • Drug use and psychopathy appear to be higher among victim-perpetrators of non-consensual dissemination of intimate images. • Exhibitionism, offense-supportive beliefs, & sexual compulsivity are more prevalent among cyberflashing victim-perpetrators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting (sexual correspondence based on text or images) is a behavior that in principle is considered normative in the literature as an expression of sexuality in the online space. At the same time, the phenomenon carries risks because it takes place on the Internet and allows its dissemination. It may also be the result of such risk when it is carried out for instrumental motives such as the desire to receive payment. The present study tested the association between sexting motives and behavior as a function of parental and peers' roles to deepen our knowledge of the sexting phenomenon. Participants included 152 adolescents aged 14–19 (M = 15.57) who engaged in sexting. They completed seven online questionnaires. The findings indicate that when the parents used a strategy of technologically restrictive mediation, sexting behaviors with sexual motivations increased, but the same strategy reduced sexting behaviors when the motivations were instrumental. The study also found that high peer cohesion promoted the association between sexual motives and sexting behaviors. The results of the study can inform the design of sexting education and shape parenting practices. • Motives for sexting can be the manifestation of normative sexuality or risk behaviors. • Different motives for sexting are associated with the role of the parents and of the peer group. • The same parental mediation can lead to opposite results, depending on the motives for sexting. • Sexting should be investigated with reference to its various motives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study set out to explain why people engage in non-consensual sexting. • 108 (63.9%) individuals had forwarded a sext without the original sender's consent. • Sexting risk attitudes are positively associated with non-consensual sext forwarding. • Receiving is the strongest predictor of forwarding, regardless of sexting attitudes. • Non-consensual sexting may be driven by social learning or impulsive decision-making. Sexting concerns the act of sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages or photos (i.e., 'sexts') through electronic means. When sexts are received or forwarded without the consent of the original sender, this is called non-consensual sexting. Our study set out to increase our understanding as to why individuals engage in non-consensual sext forwarding, by examining the role of sexting intentions, attitudes, and experience with non-consensual sext receiving. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey among a sample of 218 Belgian adults. Of this total sample, 169 (M age = 25.85 years, 73.4% women) respondents had at least once received a sext from someone, resulting in a subsample of 169 respondents for the present study. Correlation analyses showed that non-consensual forwarding of sexts was significantly positively linked to stronger attitudes towards the risks of sexting and to experiences of non-consensual sext receiving. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that non-consensual sext forwarding was significantly linked to negative attitudes about sexting, but that this significant link disappeared when non-consensual sext receiving was included as a predictor in the model. Thus, our findings show that non-consensual sext forwarding is primarily linked to non-consensual sext receiving, suggesting that individuals who experience non-consensual sexting as a recipient are inclined to non-consensually forward a sext themselves regardless of their attitudes about (the risks of) sexting. This suggests that non-consensual sexting behaviours may be driven by social learning and/or impulsive decision-making processes, indicating an important avenue for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the extent to which gender of sext message sender and type of sext message affects people's perceptions of sext messages. As part of a 2 × 2 between-subjects design, 122 undergraduates (61 women, 61 men) at a predominantly White liberal arts university in Texas read a vignette in which either a female or a male target sent a solicited or unsolicited sext message to an opposite-sex acquaintance; participants then reported their perceptions of the situation and the sender of the sext message. As predicted, women who sent unsolicited sext messages were rated as more appropriate than were men who sent unsolicited sext messages; by contrast, women and men who sent solicited sext messages were perceived as equally appropriate. These findings suggest that hypermasculinity in the form of a man sending an unsolicited sext message to a woman may be more likely to be judged as a form of sexual harassment that makes the female receiver feel uncomfortable or threatened. By contrast, cultural ideals of hegemonic masculinity seem to dictate that men should react positively to sexual advances from women, regardless of whether such advances are solicited or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol use and sexual behavior are prevalent among college students. Sexting, defined as the sending and/or receiving of sexually explicit content via electronic methods, is also associated with college students’ alcohol use. Alcohol-related expectancies (i.e., beliefs one has regarding the cognitive and behavioral effects of alcohol) partially explain the association between alcohol use and sexual behavior. Specifically, college students perceive that alcohol relates to sexual activities through increases in sexual arousal and disinhibition. Based on prior research, the relation between alcohol use and sexting may be explained by alcohol-sex expectancies. We hypothesized that alcohol use and problems would relate to sexting indirectly through sexual drive and sexual affect expectancies. We tested this hypothesis using cross-sectional, self-report methodology in a sample of undergraduate students ( N  = 534). Results indicated that alcohol use and problems related to sexting through sexual drive, but not sexual affect, expectancies. Findings highlight the importance of expectancies in the relationship between alcohol use and the understudied sexual behavior of sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose To analyze the longitudinal relationships of demographic characteristics (i.e., sex, age, and sexual orientation), personality traits according to the Big Five model, and several indicators of psychological adjustment (i.e., depression symptoms, self-esteem, and problematic Internet use) with sexting behavior among adolescents over 1 year. Method A total of 1,208 adolescents (638 girls; mean age = 13.57, SD = 1.09) completed measures at baseline and after 1 year of follow-up. The relationships among variables were examined using structural equation modeling. Results Out of the sample, 10.7% and 19.2% of adolescents reported producing and sending sexual content at time 1 (T1) and time 2 (T2), respectively. Higher ages at T1 predicted more engagement in sexting at T2. Less conscientiousness and more extraversion at T1 increased T2 sexting. Finally, more depressive symptoms at T1 predicted more sexting at T2. Conclusions Sexting increases significantly over the course of adolescence. Educational efforts should pay attention to demographic and psychological characteristics of adolescents to tailor preventive programs and prevent possible negative outcomes of engaging in sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the current and potential future impact of sexting on adolescents, we need more information about youths' attitudes and beliefs concerning this behavior. Using a national sample of 1560 youth Internet users, ages 10 to 17, collected between 2010 and 2011, the present study examined the attitudes and beliefs about the impact of sexting as well as youths’ likelihood of reporting it to authorities. Results indicate that the majority of youth considered sexting to be a crime. Compared with youth not involved in sexting, youth who were involved in sexting were less likely to consider sexting a crime and did not believe that sexting would hurt their chances of getting a job, hurt friendships, romantic relationships, or their relationship with their family. Boys and older youth held more favorable attitudes towards sexting than girls and younger youth. Boys were also less likely to say that they would report sexting to authorities and less likely to say that they would talk to their friends in order to prevent them from sexting. Youth who reported substance use, had ever had sexual intercourse, and intentional pornography consumption, were less likely to think sexting would hurt friendships or relationships, or say they would report sexting than youth not involved in these activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined adolescents' sexting experiences, with an emphasis on the prevalence of sending and receiving sexts from romantic partners, friends/peers, online friends, and strangers. We also examined the quality of sexting experiences and individual and psychosocial factors associated with sending sexts. In total, 1653 Swedish adolescents aged 12 to 16 ( M age = 14.16) completed a questionnaire. We found that 20–32% reported having received sexts and 4–16% having sent sexts. These rates typically differed depending on who the participants received sext from or sent sext to. Girls experienced more pressure to send sexts, and had more negative sexting experiences. Multiple logistic regressions showed significant relationships between online risk-taking, age, pubertal timing, family income, family and friend support, and sending sexts. The strength of these relationships differed by gender and by who the sext was sent to. This study highlights the importance of viewing adolescents’ sexting as a complex and gendered online phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snapchat is a popular social media app that provides users the opportunity to send and receive photos and videos; however, these photos and videos only last ten seconds with a close group of friends. However, there is little research regarding user's sexual behavior with the app. This current project ( N  = 450, 126 men and 324 women), investigated the sex difference between men and women and their use of the app for sending naked snapchats, gaining sexual access, and gaining a sexual hookup. It was hypothesized that men were more likely to use the app to gain a mate, and ask for naked snapchats. Women were predicted to be more likely than men to use the app to send naked snapchats to a partner, and to use this behavior continually to keep their partner interested. It was also hypothesized that unrestricted individuals would use the app more. These hypotheses were partially supported. Women did not use the app to continuously send naked snapchats. However, men were more likely than women to use the app for a hookup and unrestricted individuals were associated with using Snapchat to gain sexual access, hookups, and to continue sending naked snapchats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review examines existing literature around the concept of technology-assisted harmful sexual behavior (TA-HSB) as demonstrated by children and young people. This is when a child or young person demonstrates sexual behavior online or through the use of technology that may be harmful to themselves or others, have a significant detrimental impact on their daily functioning, or leave them vulnerable for criminal prosecution. The review was motivated by the increase of children and young people referred to a sexual abuse service, due to their demonstration of TA-HSB. This review aimed to explore theories relating to TA-HSB and to develop awareness on identified treatment needs of these behaviors, so that professionals may better understand and support children and young people demonstrating them. Furthermore, it discusses assessment, intervention and risk management approaches as currently identified within best-practice, to support towards prevention of future criminalization and further victimization. The review initially aimed to include current literature based on children and young people (aged 5 to 21 years old) demonstrating TA-HSB; however due to the limited availability of this, the search parameters were expanded with tentative consideration on the implications of this when working with children and young people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in mobile technology have allowed individuals to engage in sexting (i.e., sharing sexual words and images via technology). Researchers have examined the prevalence and correlates of sexting, but differences in samples and definitions make it difficult to develop a cohesive picture of adult sexting. This study extends our understanding of sexting behavior by using binationally-representative data from 615 Americans and Canadians in committed heterosexual and same-sex couple relationships from The Couple Well-Being Project . Using latent profile analysis, we explored how individuals' patterns of sending and receiving explicit word and/or picture text messages illustrated distinct profiles of sexting behavior. The analyses revealed 4 distinct groups of sexters: non-sexters (71.5%), word-only sexters (14.5%), frequent sexters (8.5%), and hyper sexters (5.5%). We then compared these groups on various relationship factors, indicators of individual well-being, and technology-related behaviors. Frequent and hyper sexters reported greater sexual satisfaction but were not significantly different from non-sexters or word-only sexters in relationship satisfaction. Further, frequent and hyper sexters scored more poorly on other relationship variables (i.e., attachment security, commitment, ambivalence, and conflict) than non-sexters or word-only sexters and showed greater media and pornography viewing, technoference in face-to-face interactions with their partner, and infidelity-related behaviors on social media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Sextortion (threats to expose sexual images to coerce victims to provide additional pictures, sex, or other favors) has been identified as an emerging online threat to youth, but research is scarce. We describe sextortion incidents from a large sample of victims (n = 1,385) and examine whether incidents occurring to minors (n = 572) are more or less serious than those experienced by young adults (n = 813). Methods We ran advertising campaigns on Facebook to recruit victims of sextortion, ages 18–25, for an online survey. We use cross tabulations and logistic regression to analyze incidents that began when 18- and 19-year-old respondents were minors (ages 17 and younger) and compare them with incidents that began at ages 18–25 years. Most minor victims were female (91%) and aged 16 or 17 when incidents started (75%). Results Almost 60% of respondents who were minors when sextortion occurred knew perpetrators in person, often as romantic partners. Most knowingly provided images to perpetrators (75%), but also felt pressured to do so (67%). About one-third were threatened with physical assaults and menaced for >6 months. Half did not disclose incidents, and few reported to police or websites. Perpetrators against minors (vs. adults) were more likely to pressure victims into producing initial sexual images, demand additional images, threaten victims for >6 months, and urge victims to harm themselves. Conclusions Sextortion incidents were serious victimizations, and often co-occurred with teen dating violence. We describe resources so that practitioners can help victims find support and legal advice and remove posted images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers how the social meanings of digital discourse are metadiscursively framed and structured by a combination of language, media and semiotic ideologies; that is, culturally shared beliefs about how words, technologies and meaning-making work. Illustrated with examples drawn from news-media stories and other mediatized texts, I demonstrate what this looks like in practice through a three-part, multimodal analysis of “sexting” as a case in point. Grounded first in the linguistic and visual accomplishment of three familiar language-ideological strategies (i.e. iconization , erasure , recursivity ), my analysis is then expanded to incorporate four closely related media-ideological issues ( materiality , authorship , remediation , historicity ) before turning to mode / modality and performativity as two key instantiations of semiotic ideology. While digital discourse studies should certainly not “forget about the words”, it needs always to stay attentive to the complex intersection of language with media and semiotic ideologies. This analytical principle has particular importance for critically-oriented work concerned with the way digital media are used to discipline, for example, sex and sexuality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexting among youths has become a necessary topic of interest in research because of the negative consequences that this activity could create, especially when content is shared with others. Indeed, this loss of control could lead to humiliation, (cyber)bullying, or harassment. The development of new technologies, press coverage, and increase of prevalence rates could also explain the growth of interest in sexting. However, its definition is still a gray area. This review examines the different definitions of sexting used in the literature and its correlates. Several elements of the definition of sexting were assessed: actions (sending, receiving, and forwarding); media types (text, images, and videos); sexual characteristics; and transmission modes. Nine databases were searched for studies on sexting among youths up to 18 years of age. Eighteen studies published between 2012 and 2015 were included. Prevalence rates of sexting ranged between .9% and 60% partly depending on the definition. Most studies assessed sending, but when sending and receiving were measured, prevalence rates were higher for receiving. Some articles found associations with age, gender, race, sexual behavior, romantic relationships, risky behaviors, online activity, psychological difficulties, and social pressure. Finding a consensus regarding the definition is essential to assess accurately the activity and adapt prevention. Adolescents' interpretations of the activity are important as sexting could be used as a sexual behavior between two consenting persons. Prevention strategies should focus on sexting that goes wrong when it is forwarded to a third party and when it occurs in a context of pressure or harassment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]