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Abstract
This study assessed the prevalence of sexting behaviors among adults, and the relationship between sexting and moral foundations, self-esteem, and individual differences. Additionally, this study examined differences in the methods used to send sext messages (mobile applications vs. text messages) and image content (e.g., face, masturbating). Respondents solicited through Amazon's Mechanical Turk completed the anonymous survey measuring "attitudes toward sexting." The final sample included 508 adult participants; 68% of adults reported sexting behaviors, and both mobile applications and traditional text messages were used to send sext messages. In general, individuals who scored higher on extraversion and lower on conscientiousness, agreeableness, harm, and fairness were more likely to engage in sexting behaviors. Self-esteem was not associated with any sexting behaviors. Results also found significant differences between individuals who send semi-nude and nude sext messages. Limitations and future research suggestions are discussed.
Keywords: Sexting, Adults, Personality, Individual Differences, Moral Foundations, Self- Esteem, Five-Factor Model.
Introduction
Sexting, which is the combination of "sex"+"texting", is the "sending, receiving, or forwarding of sexually explicit messages, images or photos through electronic means, particularly between cell phones" (Klettuk, Hallford, & Mellor, 2014, p. 45). The media has publicized multiple sexting incidents which have resulted in cyberbullying and suicide (Dean, 2012), distribution of child pornography charges (Miller, 2015), and possible criminal charges as a result of sexting with a minor (Rosenberg, 2016). Sexting cases resulting in cyberbullying and suicide have garnished nationwide media attention, such as the case of Jessica Logan (Hastings, 2009); however, some research suggests positive links to sexting, specifically greater levels of sexual satisfaction (Stasko & Geller, 2015). As there are both negative and positive outcomes for engaging in sexting, the phenomenon warrants further investigation.
In 2009, Music Television (MTV) and Associated Press (AP) found 3 of 10 individuals, ages ranging from 14 - 24 years old, reported engaging in sexting. Similarly, Gordon- Messer and colleagues (2013) found nearly 30% of respondents, ages ranging from 18 - 24, engaged in sexting. Samimi and Alders (2014) found 60% of college students reported they were currently engaging in sexting or had engaged in sexting in the past which is similar to Delevi and Weisskirch (2013) who found 89% of college students engage in sexting. As statistics point out, sexting is...