Volume 32, March 2014, Pages 268–275
Highlights
- 61% Of the sampled undergraduate students reported sexting.
- Individuals who have had unprotected sex were 4.5 times more likely to sext.
- Individuals who viewed Internet adult pornography were 4 times more likely to sext.
- Individuals web-based chatting with strangers were 2.4 times more likely to sext.
- Ambivalence attachment style was moderately related to sexting.
Abstract
The current study created a predictive risk model for sexting behaviors based on prior sexual experiences, online environments, and peer attachment styles (trust, alienation, and ambivalence). Eighty-eight undergraduate students completed an anonymous online survey regarding their sexting behaviors, sexual experiences, Internet usage, and peer attachment styles. 61% Of the sample reported sexting. The final predictive model for sexting behavior included the following variables: ambivalence, unprotected sex, Internet adult pornography use, and web-based video chatting with strangers. In terms of individual relationships, unprotected sex, adult pornography use, and web-based chatting with strangers were significantly related to sexting (see Table 5). Individuals who have had unprotected sex were 4.5 times more likely to sext, and individuals who viewed adult pornography were 4 times more likely to sext. Finally, individuals who had engaged in web-based video chatting with strangers were 2.4 times more likely to sext. Future research suggestions and study limitations are discussed.
Keywords
- Sexting;
- Peer attachment;
- Risky sexual behaviors;
- Online environments
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