Sexting in adolescence: The use of technology and parental supervision

Abstract

Sexting is a risky behaviour that is becoming increasingly common among adolescents. There has been little research in Latin American countries. This study analyses sexting in relation to technology use, peer and family connectedness, and parental supervision in Ecuadorian adolescents, examining gender and age differences. A sample of 613 adolescents (12-18 years old) from Quito (Ecuador) completed a questionnaire about sexting, technology use, and parental supervision. The results show that the typical profile of a sexting practitioner is an adolescent who spends a lot of time using a mobile phone, mainly for peer engagement, and who also makes greater use of the internet and social networks. Parental control does not appear to be a key factor in relation to sexting. The typical profile did not differ across gender or stage of adoles-cence, although boys and older adolescents were more involved in sexting. Girls used Instagram and Snapchat more, and they also used their mobile phone more often for peer engagement. The use of ICTs was greater among late and middle adolescents, and parental supervision decreased as adolescents got older. Sexting is associated with a greater use of technology, mainly for peer engagement. Strict parental supervision does not mitigate adolescent sexting. Educational implications are discussed.