What is sexting? Essay

In this age of applied science and information, net income and busy technology devices dominate our high society (Burton, L, 2012, p.1), with over 90% of Australians aged 15-17 owning mobile phones (Australian Communications and Media Authority, 2010, 4). Todays teens argon overly overexposed to internal content in umpteen aspects of the media (Burton, L, 2012). This highly sexualised digital culture has transformed the way youth relate to one other (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011).One phenomenon that has emerged from the increased accessibility of these devices and sexual depiction is the put of sexting (Society Pages, 2013, 1). The term sexting derives from merging the words texting and sex and invokes to the sending of sexually provocative material from modern communications devices (Forde, L. & Hardley, S., 2011). Sexting is currently receiving megabucks media attention (Walker, S., Sanci, L., & Temple-Smith, M., 2011). It is recognised as one of latest youth phenomena in popular culture (Funnell, N, 2012).Although the sharing of sexually explicit material is not a new concept, it has become simpler with the internet (Walker, S., Sanci, L., & Temple-Smith, M., 2011). Shared images become part of a upstart persons digital footprint, which may last forever and have the potential to damage future tense career prospects or relationships (NSW Government, 2008, 3.). The prevalence of sextingA national survey conducted in 2010 by the organisation Understanding Teenagers open that 59% of teenagers have electronically ancestral sexually suggestive material (Understanding Teenagers, 2010, 3). In another survey conducted by the popular teen girl magazine Girlfriend found that 40% of 558 participants had been mixed in sexting (Parliament of Victoria rightfulness Reform perpetration Sexting Inquiry (PVLRCSI), 2012).In Queensland alone, 459 sexting offences were reported in 2011 (PVLRCSI, 2012) and in Western Australia sexting offences h ave tripled in number from 2009 to 2011 (PVLRCSI, 2012). investigate by the Statesn psychologist Andrew Smiler found various causes that attri scarcelye to sexting to demonstrate commitment in a relationship, to impress friends, to harass or bully, or as a dare. According to an article in the Teacher Learning Network journal,In popular culture, sexting is seen as a young persons phenomenon mobile phones, raunch culture, a lack of inhibition, a lack of respect even a lack of morals are seen by many as the ideal storm that has created the sexting phenomenon.(Funnell, N, 2012). Looking at sexting through the lens of Sociological TheoryFeminist TheorySexting is recognised as a grammatical gender related trim because young girls feel pressure from the over-sexualised media to present themselves as sexually desirable. Similarly, young men have been conditioned to expect this doings. Sexting has created a mechanism for young deal to actualize these expectations (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). It is understood that young girls are at greater risk of adverse effects than young men by this behaviour (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). Experts go as far as to claim the possibility of a link among sexting and gendered sexual violence targeting women (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011).Womans advocate, writer and speaker Melinda Tankard- Reist discusses in her videodisk Too Sexy Too Soon that our society tells young girls their primary value is being on display sexually. Our society has created a culture where sexualisation of young girl is regarded as normal (Tutorial DVD). Jean Kilbourne and Diane Levin, authors of Sexy So Soon, argue Boys are surrounded by media messages that encourage them to judge their female person peers based on how they look, often to view them with contempt, and to expect sexual subservience from them (Burton, L., 2012). An interesting anecdote on the evolution of the womens liberation movement fro m feminist Anne Manne readsThe relationship between womens liberation and the new sexual freedom was never an uncomplicated one. The two movements have often been in tension. Jostling alongside welcome signs of womens new-found status, and a more relaxed, tolerant, open and liberal society on sexual matters, many of the contours of the new sexual liberalism remain shaped by male mastery (as cited by Burton, L, 2012).Ms Manne (as cited in Butron, L, 2012) goes on to say that along the way weallowed sexual liberation to be dictated to by pornography. This view get alongs to be supported by many females reported in our media today. In the look paper small-scale and Over- exposed Burton (2012) interviewed a young girl who said,Look at most girls role models. Most celebrities are just out there at parties, getting drunk and having sex with everyone. Paris Hilton as much as she is a bad role model to us, she is always in the newspapers and stuff like that so younger generations w ha rdship be influenced by he.There are also the recent antics of child star Miley Cyrus and her almost adult performances at the VMA Music awards in September and her raunchy new film clip for tote up single Wrecking Ball.Symbolic Interaction TheorySymbolic interactionists focus on how communication is central to all human interaction and how these interactions create society (Carl, J & Baker, S, 2011). This theory would view sexting as youth exercising their power to create society. These youth are developing their own standards of what is normal and acceptable behaviour (Carl, J & Baker, S, 2011). offspring consider sexting an adult or media-generated concept (University of New South Wales, 2013, p.1).Youth do not call this activity sexting, but refer to such(prenominal) behaviour as taking noodz, naked selfies, dirty pics or sexy pics (The University of Melbourne, 2012). However, although this creativity and individualism may be acceptable within subgroups, such as the youth su bculture, on a macro train it often conflicts with the norm (The University of Melbourne, 2012). Symbolic Interactionist Chafetz argues that men and woman communicate differently men work to dominate conversation and woman follow arbitrary rules that men impose.She says Women use body language in ways that weaken their ability to assert themselves, this makes them appear less powerful than their male counterparts (Chafetz, 1997 as cited in Carl & Hillman, 2011 p. 86). Men and woman often act in a default manner associated with stereotyped gender roles. For example, woman use body language and gestures, or in this case nude images, whereas men tend to be more direct displaying their masculinityby demanding these pictures from their female counterparts (Carl & Hillman, 2011).Sexting is a good example of the manifestation of how an individuals definition of gender develops from everyday interactions (Chafetz 1997 as cited in Carl & Hillman, 2011). In todays society, we are flooded wi th sexually explicit material and people appear desensitised. Psychologist Andrew Smiler statedA porn aesthetic pervades culture in fashion, music, pastime and behaviour. This is evident in the billboards, music videos and designer stores that shape the desires and imaginations of a younger and younger demographic. It is not just that culture has become more sexualised. It is that the imagery of the pornographic erotic has shaped the sexualisation of culture. (Smiler, A as cited in Burton, L, 2012).Research conducted by Hewlett Packard found that what is communicated visually has more impact than any other form of communication. Their search supports the idea that visual communication can be more powerful than verbal communication, suggesting in many instances that people learn and retain information that is presented to them visually much better than that which is only provided verbally (Hewlett Parkard, 2004, 1).Sexual images are everywhere, often without words, and are creatin g a whole new set of community values. These images are load-bearing(a) our young peoples sexual exploration and thus reinforcing the behaviour of sexting. Australian Institute researcher Flood stated that the regular and frequent exposure to sexual content in mainstream media produces greater sexual knowledge and more liberal sexual attitudes among children and young people.Although the media operate at the macro level their influence permeates through to a micro level, thus influencing the way individuals communicate. Symbolic interaction provides a useful explanation of how the sub-culture of sexting has developed. Effects of SextingSocial and EmotionalYouth are readily involved in this activity but are nave as to its consequences. According to Goodings and Everaardt (2010) as cited in ofthe Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee Sexting Inquiry (PVLRCSI)), 2013 the social ramifications can be the most damaging when it comes to sexting. The case of Jessica Logan an 18 year old student in America demonstrates the dangers of sexting. The images she sent to her boyfriend were later distributed to hundreds of people and ultimately ended in her suicide (Forde, L. & Hardley, S., 2011).Although most cases are not as extreme as Jessicas, the mass distribution of these images is common. There are many other detrimental physiological, emotional and social (Goodings and Everaardt (2010) as cited in the Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee Sexting Inquiry (2012). Sexting is a dangerous activity and unfortunately the viral spread of these images and the associated shame have reportedly led to social, psychological and legal consequences for victims (Katzman, 2010).Legalowe to the rapidity of technological development, practices such as sexting are not adequately covered by Australian law. This is known as cultural lag(J, Carl, S Baker, Scott, Hillman & Larwrence, 2011). Young people who send and receive sexually explicit images may find themselves in seriou s trouble under various state and area child pornography laws.One specific piece of legislation is Part 10.6 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995, which makes it an offence to access, transmit, publish, possess, control, supply or bewilder child pornography (Forde, L. & Hardley, S., 2011). Furthermore in Queensland, those being convicted of child pornography may also be added to the Sex Offenders Register.Sexting also falls under the family of sexual harassment under S28A of the Commonwealth Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Forde, L. & Hardley, S, 2011). These laws are designed to protect children from the abuse of adults and many agree that they are ill suited to the issue of youth sexting each other (Forde, L. & Hardley, S, 2011). Those working with children would need to be aware that if they confiscate a data storage device containing such images, or if such images are stored on a school device, material they can also be charged (Forde, L. & Hardley, S, 2011). My RoleAs a y outh worker I would be involved at a grassroots level in mentoring and supporting of youth involved in this practice. I would also want to be involved in sex education classes. According to experts it is vital to include youths opinions and ideas if effective solutions are to be found (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011, p.8). As a youth worker I need to facilitate this and make sure that youth are given this interpreter. rescuerian Youth take in PerspectiveAdolescence is a time of life where humans are forming their identity (PBS, 2011, 1). Young people are searching for truth, purpose and belonging. Many youth do not have any authority in their life instructing them on how to build and maintain healthy relationships and therefore are more likely to be involved in risky relationships (Burton, L, 2012)Christian youth workers and chaplains have a great opportunity to be in schools educating youth on issuings such as identity, purpose and healthy relationships. As a Chri stian youth worker I want youth to find their true identity in Christ and that they ultimately belong to him. This truth is the most empowering knowledge any human can have and it answers these questions of identity, truth and purpose. Christian EvaluationFrom a Christian sentiment the act of sexting would be seen as sexually unlawful behaviour and thus frowned upon because it would contain images that would be considered pornographic. There are countless references to such behaviour in the Bible to support this. In 1 Corinthians 618 Paul writes Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are orthogonal the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own you were bought at a price.Therefore honor God with your bodies (NIV). Paul reiterates the sin of sexual immorality in 1 Thessalonians 43-7 It is Gods will that you s hould be sanctified that you should avoid sexual immorality that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is hallowed and honorable The headmaster will punish all those who commit such sins, as we told you and warned you before. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life (NIV). The message version of Ephesians 51-4 provides anexcellent example of how healthy relationships are important and without good understanding of them people fall into the trap of immoral behaviour.Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didnt love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. Dont allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed.Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Dont talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesnt fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect. However, it is not the role of Christians to judge the youth involved in this behaviour, but to encourage them to change this behaviour because it is dangerous. The role of Church should be to promote healthy relationships and demonstrate Christs love.RecommendationsA community approach is inevitable if sexting is to be effectively reduced. Parents and the education system need to work together with the youth in order to tackle this issue (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). The problem could be communicate through 1. Sex education classes that include advice on (a) the development of healthy relationships, (b) the dangers of sexting and (c) sexual morality and self-image (PVLRCSI, 2012, p.8&9) and (Funnell, N, 2012).2. Providing seminars for guidance offi cers, counsellors and chaplains in schools to assist them in addressing this issue with their students (PVLRCS, 2012). 3. Incorporating the voice of youth into the attempts to address the issue of sexting (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). 4. Schools providing education for parents on the issue of sexting. This should include, (a) the various consequences of sexting, (b) the legal ramifications and (c) how they can impose restrictions on technology more effectively (PVLRCS2012, 2012). 5. Providing a government community service announcement on this issue be, e.g. a television advertisement campaign. 6. Updating the law need to address sexting appropriately.7. Conducting further research on the topic.Reference ListAustralian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). (2010) Trends in media use by children and youth Insights from the Kaiser Family Foundations Generation. Retrieved 22 sublime 2013 from, Burton, L. (2012). Underage and overexposed Discussing pornography a nd raunch culture with students. Screen Education, Autumn No. 58, 58-70. Carl, J & Baker, S. (2011). Think Sociology. J.D. Baker, S. Baker, B. Robards, J. Scott, W. Hillman & G. Lawrence (Eds.) (pp.22-23). French Forrest NSW Pearson Australia. Forde, L . & Hardley, V. (2011). Sexting The legal implications. The National Education Magazine, June Edition, 56-59. Funnell, N. (2012).Sexting Male and female its on for young and old. Teachers Learning Network, 19 (2), 37-39. Hewlett Packard (2004). The power of visual communication PDF file. Retrieved 18 September 2013, from http//www.hp.com/large/ipg/assets/bus-solutions/power-of-visual-communication.pdf Katzman, D.K. (2010), Sexting Keeping teens safe and responsible in a technologically savvy world. Paediatric Child Health, 15(1), 41-2.New South Wales (NSW) Government. (2008)Safe sexting No such thing information sheet for parents. Retrieved 23 August 2013 from, http//www.schools.nsw.edu.au.Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee on Sexting Inquiry. (2012). Sexting in Australia The legal and social ramifications. Retrieved 22 August 2013, from ttp//www.parliament.vic.gov.au/images/stories/committees/lawrefrom/isexting/subs/S07_-_Salvation_Army_Oasis_Hunter.pdf PBS. (2011). Identity formation. Retrieved 7 September 2013, from http//www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/topic/adolescence/identity-formation Tankard-Reist, M (Tutorial DVD)The Society Pages. (2013). Youth, technology and the problemof sexting PDF file. Retrieved 22 August 2013, from http//thesocietypages.org/sociologylens/2013/04/20/young-people-technology-a