Psychologist Explains How to Keep Your Kid from Sexting

With every new leap in technology it seems there comes along with it an unexpected impact on society; who could have predicted that young teens would start sending text messages filled with sex talk, or worse, photos of themselves in various states of undress or engaging in sexual behavior. It's just not a problem most parents ever thought they'd encounter, yet now, here it is and it's not going away. This is why clinical psychologist Barbara Greenberg, has written and posted an article in Psychology Today, offering advice to parents of teenagers who find themselves uncertain about what to do regarding texting and sexting with others.

The first thing she says is likely to take many parents aback: start monitoring their texting history. All smartphones have a way for its owner to scroll back in time to review messages that have been sent. Greenberg suggests parents take advantage of that. But she also suggests very strongly that parents tell their kids they will be doing so beforehand. It's not dishonest if parents make it part of the deal when giving kids a cell phone. It's also a good way to start a dialogue before such behavior might even be considered. And finally, it's really the only way to know if your kids are doing things they shouldn't.

The other thing she says is to be upfront, clear and frank with kids when discussing sexting. Many kids don't realize first of all, that sending pictures of themselves engaging in sexual activities can be considered child pornography for which they and the recipient can be prosecuted. Many kids also don't realize the full implications of what they are doing; many are surprised to find that the picture or message they sent that they thought would remain private, has been sent to countless others. In other words, parents need to educate first themselves on the dangers of texting and then share that information with their kids.

There is also the issue of right and wrong. Just as parents teach their kids what is right and wrong regarding other teen issues such as lying, cheating or stealing, there is a degree of right and wrong involved when sending text messages. Thus, parents need to make it very clear what they feel is acceptable and what is not, and that violations of acceptable behavior will result in punishment.

In sum, Dr. Greenburg suggests parents tackle the problem head-on. The best way to prevent abuse of texting is to give kids good information and then follow that up with very clear rules.