Implicit and explicit texting, otherwise known as “sexting,” has many similar definitions from different people. Some are a little personal: “Sexting is when you tell your significant other the inappropriate things you want to do to each other.” Some are more official, such as CKHS guidance counselor Michelle Sotelo’s definition: “Sending – in my opinion – inappropriate pictures to another person, usually of a very personal nature.” Also, some are just straight to the point: “Sending nudes or talking about sexual acts or referring to them.” The well-deserved taboo that surrounds this topic is widely known and understood, but the Cougar Chronicle is an educational site that seeks to educate in an educated manner. So, with that in mind, without the taboo, without the snickering and immature giggles, here are the facts.

The widespread idea that “everyone is doing it” is inherently…just plain false. There are plenty of scary, fear mongering news stories and articles that throw numbers between 40 and 53 percent of ALL teens are out there sending each other these inappropriate messages and/or photos. This study by NSPCC, however, was a small personal series of interviews of 35 students in London, England. More broad, more local studies, however, such as MTV’s, indicate a much smaller participation, at 33 percent. That includes anything taken as sexual at all — sent, received, consented, or even forced. When we focus on things only sent, that number in sliced in half. Definition seems to be very important; the more specific you get, the more that number keeps dropping and dropping to eventually only one percent of all teenagers.

CK teens who admit to being involved in such activity have these words of wisdom to say: “I don’t think it’s a big deal if you’re having fun,” “It’s kind of scary at the same…it’s like a big risk that you’re taking. You’re trusting somebody with pictures of you,” “You do you, I’m not gonna judge,” “I don’t know, I’m Christian but I mean, I’ve done it before,” “I don’t do it, I think it is stupid.”

Sotelo gives her guided counsel to those wondering what to do if they are in this kind of situation. Before taking and sending a photo, she implores you to ask yourself: “Would you want your grandma to see it?” If not, then a double take on what you are doing is probably needed. Photos of yourself of a sexual nature are considered by law to be child pornography; this counts whether received and/or sent. Fellow Cougars, readers, and adored friends, realize when your camera is on and stay safe. Thank you.