TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2022//
TI  - What do peers think about sexting? Adolescents' views of the norms guiding sexting behavior
JO  - Journal of adolescent research
A1  - Burén, Jonas
A1  - Holmqvist Gattario, Kristina
A1  - Lunde, Carolina
SP  - 221
EP  - 249
VL  - 37
IS  - 2
N2  - This study examined the content of injunctive peer norms (i.e., perceived peer approval) of sexting among Swedish adolescents. Written answers from 808 adolescents (Mage = 14.22) to an open-ended question about peers' views of sexting were analyzed qualitatively using content analysis. Eight categories were distinguished for when and why sexting is acceptable or not in the peer group. A substantial share of adolescents believed their peers approve of sexting, especially if sexting occurs within trusted relationships and when all parties have consented. A large share of adolescents described that peers were non-accepting of sexting, emphasizing that it can be spread to others. The participants also suggested that sexting is seen as a gendered phenomenon surrounded by sexual double standards, with girls at more risk of negative consequences. Some participants emphasized the peer view that adolescents sext to seek attention, and some emphasized that sexting is viewed as an enjoyable activity. Several of these categories' likelihood to be mentioned was related to the adolescents' age, gender, and prior experience of sexting. We concluded that adolescents might have a hard time navigating the social context of sexting, given the conflicting and gendered messages from peers.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0743-5584
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/07435584211014837
ID  - ref1
ER  -