Adolescent sexting policy analysis : paper tigers to practical solutions

Abstract

Adolescence as a developmental phase is characterised by physical, emotional, and sexual maturation, as well as sexual exploration. Adolescents use technology to explore their sexuality and forge their identities. Some adolescents engage in this behaviour through the practice of sexting, which is defined as the exchange of sexually explicit messages, texts, images, or videos across a range of technological devices. Adolescent sexting is problematic because it falls within the ambit of child pornography laws in South Africa and, as such, constitutes illegal behaviour. Internationally, various policies have been implemented to address adolescent sexting, but there is little consensus on the best practices for managing such incidents, especially at the school level. The present article draws on data from a policy analysis of school-based sexting policies and on insights from expert and parent interviews to develop a sexting policy framework for South African schools. The objective is to support South African schools in maximising risk management and reducing sexting. A school-based policy cannot be gendered in nature regarding its response; however, the gendered dialogue surrounding adolescent sexting must be considered when educating young people about the possible negative repercussions of sexting, as well as the gendered motivations for, experiences of, and expectations surrounding sexting.