Unwanted sexting can lead to psychological distress

While sending or receiving nude electronic images may not always be associated with poorer mental health, being coerced to do so and receiving unwanted sexts was linked to a higher likelihood of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, a recent study suggests.

Latest findings draw a link between sexting and psychological distress among young adults.

While sending or receiving nude electronic images may not always be associated with poorer mental health, being coerced to do so and receiving unwanted sexts was linked to a higher likelihood of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, a recent study suggests.

As part of the study, the researchers found that receiving unwanted texts and sexting under coercion was also associated with lower self-esteem. Furthermore, males receiving unwanted sexts had poorer mental health outcomes.

The findings of the study were published in the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking.

“With more of our lives playing out online, sexting and other seemingly private communications may be contributing to an indelible digital footprint. Digital sex is a much-needed topic in today’s sexual education programmes to ensure responsible use of technologies,” explained Brenda K. Wiederhold, lead author of the study.

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