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Abstract
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Aims
Sexting is common among young women, with a recent UK survey showing more than 70% of young women receive sexts. We explored young women’s perspectives of sexting, the potential impact on their mental health and the barriers to help-seeking.
Methods
We conducted five online focus groups with 27 young women between 16 to 20 years old based in the UK. Young women were recruited from universities, mental health charities and social media. We hosted five online focus groups. We are currently conducting reflexive thematic analysis.
Results and conclusions
Preliminary results indicate that some young women started sexting in adolescence to seek validation from their peers and improve their body image. They reported consensual sexting to be enjoyable and beneficial for their relationships and self-esteem as they got older. However, others found non-consensual sexting to negatively affect their mental health, for example, by being cyberflashed. This could lead to rumination and self-blame. Others felt anxious after sending nudes due to the potential for images to be shared without their consent and the shame this could bring. Regarding help-seeking, some distrusted authorities for confidentiality reasons and concern that parents would be informed. Instead, they wanted to seek help from professionals who are experienced with these issues or through the sharing of these experiences in support groups. They also suggested parental education around sexting to help parents support their children and reduce barriers to help-seeking. We will be presenting the main themes and conclusions of the study after finalising our analysis.
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