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Sexual Health News - Sexual Health and Behavior

Dutch study examines "sexting" and patterns of teen sexual behavior

By Christopher Lynch, MD Nov. 28, 2012
Parents have a tough time keeping track of their teens' online and cell phone behaviors, which could lead to some particularly risky activities. According to U.S. News & World Report, a recent study from the University of Amsterdam examining teens' online sexual activities and casual sex habits has found that those who pursue sexual endeavors online are more likely to have real-life sexual encounters.

Not so surprisingly, the reverse was also true. "Adolescents who engaged in offline sexual risk behavior were also likely to engage in online sexual risk behavior," study author Susanne Baumgartner told the news source.

Of the 1,700 Dutch adolescents ranging from 12 to 18 years old, the main behaviors examined included sending naked photos online as well as talking with strangers over the internet, which could lead to risky sexual behavior and the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. Additionally, the study found that individuals from lower education levels or those who reported less satisfaction with their lives were more likely to go online in search of sexual communication.

Ultimately, the study highlighted the fact that online and offline behaviors have a tendency to parallel one another.
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