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Abstract: 

“Sexting” is another facet of the increased attraction youth has with social media and cellphones. Teens’ self-production and distribution of sexually explicit photos and video via cellphone, online social media, and other communication technology comprise the diverse behaviors that are commonly referred to as “sexting.” Although anti-sexting laws are aimed at the content of the texted material, the act of sending such material is encompassed by laws that ban texting while driving. The article below outlines characteristics of current laws, with specific emphasis on their scope, definitions, and sanctions. The article also examines some alternative legislative approaches that have been proposed, and evaluates the laws based on what is being learned about the scope and nature of teen sexting behavior.

Keywords: Teen Pregnancy, Content Standards, Suicide, Experimental vs Aggravated cases, counseling, educational programming

Affiliations:  1: co-editor of Sex Offenders Law Report; 2: Student, New York University School of Law.