Sexting 101: How to Be Smart About It

Photo by Julio Tirado on Unsplash

Most of us have been either the recipient or sender of sexual text messages, better known as sexting. According to Metro, 8 in 10 adults aged between 18–22 years old, reports that they have texted at least once. 42% of people dating, and 32 percent of people in committed relationships less than 10 years long, are sexting.

Sexting is an alternative form of intimacy that doesn’t involve physical touch. Studies show that people release dopamine when they sext. It’s exciting and can strengthen the connection you have with your partner. It’s also a way to build healthy sexual tension until you can be together IRL. Lastly, it can serve as a safe feeler to find out what your partner would be down with, in the bedroom.

It’s important:

• That you only sext with people you trust. You certainly would not want the sensitive information or photos you send getting into the wrong hands
• You should probably already have an established rapport and/or relationship with the person you intend to sext, however, you should still seek out consent. I’ve received a few dick pics that I never asked for or even wanted to receive
• Speaking of consent, asking rather than demanding, is a good general practice to employ. It’s almost like a safe word to make sure everything is mutually desired.