Sexting

Ask The Experts: Kathy Rager, Executive Director, CARE
Q: My son, age 15, is way too involved with his girl friend. But unlike when I was a teen, most of their communication seems to be over cell phones. I must admit, I do not understand "texting" and now I just heard about "sexting." From what I understand teens are flirting by sending nude or semi-nude pictures to each other. I have also heard that it may be illegal. Aside from the moral issues involved, should I be concerned?

A: You should be concerned and while I tend to not be reactionary, this trend has some very serious implications. Media is increasingly reporting on the legal ramifications of sharing nude or almost nude pictures via technology. "Sexting" may be considered flirting by some young people. Other youth, and their parents, may consider it harassment and will report it to law enforcement. Senders, and in some cases receivers, can face prosecution for obscenity or child pornography.
At the very least, this behavior can result in loss of college or work related opportunities and at its worse, it can be prosecuted as a felony.

The good news is that law makers are looking at the serious consequences of sexting, recognizing that teens do act impulsively and provocatively. Roughly 20 percent of teens say that they have participated in "sexting" according to a national survey conducted by the National Campaign to Support Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy. Should 20 percent of our teens face felony charges because of their lack of maturity? Many law makers say, "no" and some states are taking on the issue.

So what should a parent do in the mean time?

• Talk to your kids. Let them know how serious this behavior can be.
• Talking to your kids may not be enough. Limit their ability to send photos. The service can be turned off. I recommend it.
• If you chose to not turn off the photo option, check your child's photos and text messages. I typically do not encourage snooping, but this is a big enough issue that it should be taken seriously.
• Good luck! A parent can do everything in their power to protect a child and the reality is that in this day and age, a child can find a way, if they are motivated, to become involve in risky behavior.

Kathy Rager, Executive Director at Community Assessment Referral & Education (CARE) and parent educator has provided advice on raising competent, capable children for the last 24 years. Her advice is based on a formal education, experience with highly stressed families and raising her own three children. She can be reached at 586.541.0033. CARE is located at 21012 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236. You can learn more about healthy parenting by visiting CARE's web site at www.careofmacomb.com or call the CARE office at 586.541.0033. Read more on cyber bullying at www.isafe.org/internetsafetymonth. CARE is also member of The Family Center's Association of Professionals.

The Family Center, a 501(c) 3, non-profit organization, serves as the community's centralized hub for information, resources and referral for families and professionals.
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