Sexting Has Many Victims
by Peter Ferioli - July 14, 2009

Over at The Chattanoogan.com, Jennifer Yim has writtten a solid piece around the "Online Danger du Jour" entitled "Sexting: The Secret Trend of American Teens". It does a good job of alerting parents and educators who are not aware of this behavior, that it is occurring- and often.The article does not go far enough on the impact and consequences of these actions.

The loss of life due to this behavior is a reality. Being labelled a sex offender because of this behavior is a reality. Committing federal crimes and going to jail because of this behavior is a reality. The loss of self-esteem, self-respect, and the emotional impact of the unforeseen results of this behavior is a reality.

Legislation and law enforcement do little good in helping to prevent and educate teens, teachers and parents about these dangers. The best way to address this issue is to take a holistic approach like Richard Guerry and The Institute for Responsible Online and CellPhone Communication:

We are dedicated to proactively communicating our concept of safety, self responsibility, self accountability and the devastating and life altering consequences that can occur when failing to apply our concept of "Digital Responsibility" or "Responsibility 2.1CTM" while using the internet, cell phones and other digital technologies.

The other issue surrounding the behavior of sexting relates to parents purchasing and allowing the use of these technologies without guidelines or restrictions. Perhaps your tween doesn't need a data plan, MMS texting or a built in camera or video recorder on a device that allows them to communicate with anyone, anywhere at anytime?