Texting made headway in the early 2000’s, since then texting has turned into sexting among adolescents to young adults.

Sexting is the practice of sending explicit messages that may include provocative pictures as well as words.

In a study in the southeastern region of Texas, sexting is common among 14 to 19-year-olds. The study included 948 participants from seven different high schools. Researched showed 28 percent of teens have sent a nude picture of themselves, 31 percent has asked for a nude to be sent to them and 57 percent have been asked to send a nude picture.

Researchers relate sexting to the modern day “I show you mine, if you’ll show me yours.” Although teens have experienced their fair share of sexting, according to study author Jeff Temple, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, the study revealed most teens are actually uncomfortable with being asked to send a nude picture. Temple stated all girls are uneasy with sexting and at least half of the boys are bothered a tad bit.

Sexting also has a correlation to risky behavior. Teens that have sexted are more likely to participate in real-life sexual behaviors. Among teen girls sexting may lead to more lewd behaviors including using drugs or alcohol before participating in sexual behaviors that may include multiple sex partners.

On the contrary, for boy, sexting is seen to be relatively normal and positive, where for girls they may risk having a negative depiction of their reputation. Girls face dealing with being labeled promiscuous or may be bullied due to sexting.

According to Temple due to national laws, teens are actually engaging in unlawful acts. Several teens can be prosecuted for child pornography and other sexual crimes. Resources should be used to focus on prevention and educational programs regarding sexting and risqué behaviors among teens.

The study was published in the journal Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.