A Girl’s Sexteen Pic Goes Viral

An Illegal Sexteen Pic

After sending her inappropriate dick pic to someone she had an emotional connection to, the image went viral, but its impact could extend far beyond just social media posts and messages. This teenager may face legal consequences and face potentially life-altering charges as a result of this digital mistake.

Sexting, or sending sexually suggestive images and messages via cell phone text messages, has serious and often-hidden repercussions that are often unintended. Although not illegal in Oregon, sexting may be considered illegal in 30 states where consent for teens aged 13-18 exceeds 18. Thus, she could face charges for sending nude photos under 18 – misdemeanor or summary offense depending on where you reside.

According to the Pew Research Center, 15% of cell-owning teens aged 12-17 reported sending or receiving sexually suggestive images or videos via text messaging that suggested nude or near-nude sexuality of themselves or someone they knew, both for legal as well as psychosocial/emotional ramifications – one study concluded sexting was associated with depressive symptomatology and low self-esteem among female adolescents.

Sexting may not be as widespread as has been suggested in media headlines, but it remains an issue. We can all work to reduce teen sexting and the damage it causes by providing education on its dangers; teaching teens how to use technology responsibly as well as encouraging parents to talk to their children about the potential ramifications of sharing sexually explicit images is one way.