Sexting education and prevention of image-based sexual abuse: A qualitative study of expert opinions.

• In Event: Image-based sexual abuse: victimization, perpetration, prevention, and policing.

Abstract

Sexting, the exchange of self-generated sexually explicit content via digital platforms, is a normative behavior among adolescents. While consensual sexting can be considered a normal behavior within adolescence, image-based sexual abuse and abusive forms of sexting should be prevented. Despite efforts by organizations to initiate sexting education and prevent image-based sexual abuse, there is currently no consensus on program content and delivery. To address this gap in the literature, this ongoing study aims to assess what experts from diverse fields believe that sexting education should look like. We are engaging practitioners and researchers from diverse fields including criminology, police work, psychology, social work, sexual education, media literacy, and relationship studies.
Interviews are being conducted over Zoom with experts from around the world, with a target of 40 international participants. Thematic analysis will be used to analyze the data. The results will focus on expert perspectives regarding the ideal structure and delivery of sexting education and image-based sexual abuse prevention. Data collection and analysis will be completed by the time of the conference and during the conference we will present the final results of the study. Preliminary findings, based on ongoing data collection, suggest a need for sexting education to move away from traditional gender roles (depicting girls as victims and boys as perpetrators), and instead, emphasize broader discussions on healthy relationships and resilience. The study's outcomes will contribute to formulating effective strategies for sexting education and prevention, promoting digital well-being and safe online behavior among adolescents.

Author

• Joris Van Ouytsel, Arizona State University