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You’ve heard the horror stories and read the harrowing statistics, but you never imagined your child would be the one sexting. When you find out what’s going on, you may feel defeated and terrified. You may also feel sad, confused, and even angry. While these emotions are normal, they can be undoubtedly challenging.
Teens and Sexting: What to Do If Your Child Is Sending Inappropriate Picture
It’s no secret that the relationship between teens and sexting is complicated and dangerous. However, as a parent you play a profound role in helping your child. If you discover that your child is sending inappropriate pictures, there are several steps to take.
Acknowledge the Issue Directly
This isn’t the time for acting passively or pretending like you accidentally “found something.” Teen sexting is a serious issue, and it needs to be treated as such.
Identify the Motive
Teen sexting doesn’t happen randomly. Your teen is choosing to send these images for a reason. Ask yourself what you imagine your child is seeking. Approval from others? The desire to fit in with their friends? The need to explore their sexuality?
If you’re not sure of the motive, you can consider asking your child when you acknowledge the issue. However, make sure you do so in a gentle, non-confrontational way.
Review the Consequences
There are no current sexting laws in Idaho. However, that doesn’t exempt your child from potential legal consequences. For instance, HB 555, which was proposed in 2016, would classify sending or receiving explicit images as a misdemeanor.
Moreover, the consequences extend beyond black-and-white laws. Be sure to emphasize that a single image can be shared to millions of people with the click of a button. This action creates a sense of permanence. Therefore, inappropriate pictures can impact everything from a child’s self-esteem and social relationships to future job opportunities and reputation.
Discuss Sex and Safety Directly
Sending inappropriate images doesn’t necessarily mean your child is having sex. That said, most of our youth is learning about their sexuality online rather than from trusted sources or their parents.
Regardless of your own beliefs about teenage sex, it’s essential you have an honest conversation with your child.
By conveying your openness to talk about it, you model having a nonjudgmental attitude, which may make your child feel more inclined to share personal details with you.
Emphasize how they can protect themselves and keep their bodies safe. Review the importance of having both physical and emotional boundaries. Additionally, let them know they can come to you—at any time—if they have questions.
Final Thoughts on Teens and Sexting
Teens and sexting remain a complex issue for everyone. As a parent, you can help your child by staying informed and aware of the implications.
If sexting has become an issue for your child, please reach out to Idaho Youth Ranch. Our master-level clinicians can help your child to address any underlying challenges that may be influencing your teen to engage in risky behavior.
Get Help for Your Child or Teen Now
Sources
- Sexting Laws in Idaho - Cyberbullying Research Center. (2019, August 13). Cyberbullying Research Center. https://cyberbullying.org/sexting-laws/idaho#:~:text=There%20is%20no%20sexting%20law,a%20felony%20in%20some%20cases.
- Have you had “the talk” with your teen? (2017). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/sex-education/art-20044034