Is sexting bad?
Sexting is sending a sexual photo, text message, or video. What are the risks? Is sexting safe?
To remember
👉 Sexts = Risks. Even if it's consensual, the photo can be shared. Phone theft, change of heart... You never know!
👉 Under 18? According to the law, having photos of yourself or your partner naked on your phone is prohibited, even if you both agree.
Does Everyone Send Sexts?
No, not everyone sends sexts. In fact, sending nude photos of yourself is not as common as you might think, even though it's completely normal to feel like doing it or receiving them. What's important isn't what others do, but rather being aware of the risks involved in sending a sext when you're under 18.
🚨In any case, never send a sext because you feel pressured, fear losing the other person, or because you're being threatened (or any other form of pressure). Listen to your inner voice: if it tells you that you're doing it more for the other person than for yourself, that's a signal to pay attention to.
What if Sexting Happens in Private, Between Consenting People?
It's perfectly normal to want to flirt with your partner, especially when you're in love and discovering these new sensations. You might find it exciting to explore your body and your partner's in this way. You might also find sending a photo less awkward than showing your body in person.
However, it's important to keep in mind that even if you think you're safe because the sharing is private, it's not necessary true.
You never entirely control the distribution of the photo: it could end up in a stranger's hands if your phone or computer is stolen, for example. Your trust relationship with your partner may also change after a breakup or a fight, or under pressure from friends.
It's true; we don't think about it much when we're caught up in the moment, or in a good relationship with someone, but it's important to protect yourself nonetheless – by thinking of other ways to discover each other, for example. Or at least, by asking questions about the benefits of these exchanges compared to the risks they pose.
Sexting or Not: Benefits vs. Risks
Sexting can be an exciting way to share intimacy and seduction with your partner. It can be seen as one of many ways to strengthen the bond and sexual complicity between two consenting people who know each other well. However, before doing it, carefully weigh the benefits against the risks. Always keep in mind that the person you're sending a sext to has access to something very personal and intimate, which requires great trust.
Make sure the recipient of your sexts is someone you fully trust. The context can be very different if you've been sharing your life with this person for months or years, compared to someone who promises to date you only if they get photos of you, or someone you've never met. Never let outside pressure or empty promises guide your decision.
In any case, never send a sext because you feel forced: the decision must be yours and align with what you really want.
What Does the Law Say?
According to the juvenile pornography law, it is illegal to possess or publish photos, texts, or videos of a sexual nature of a person under 18... This includes even selfies, videos, or texts you produce about yourself and have in your possession, whether you share them or not!
As for written sexts, the law is less strict if both parties are consenting, in accordance with the sexual consent law. However, it remains a practice that can have serious consequences. Be careful!
