Sexting

Gr 7 Up—Three dramatized scenarios typify problems teens encounter when texting suggestive or sexually explicit messages and photos. A male and a female teen host introduce the program and explain that teens are so accustomed to using texting devices that they often act impulsively without regard to consequences, which may include humiliation, harmed relationships, or legal trouble. In "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," four girls agree to take photos of each other unclothed in the privacy of a bedroom. They swear to keep the photos private, but one is sent to a boy classmate by mistake and he forwards it to others. A school counselor calls the girls in and tells them that the photos they deem only "flirty" could constitute child pornography in some states. In "You Would If You Loved Me," a teen wants a nude picture of his girlfriend to keep privately, but when the relationship goes sour, the photo is used as a weapon of retaliation by the jilted boyfriend against his ex. The last episode depicts a teen in the library using Facebook on his laptop. When his attention is diverted, his friend writes some raunchy text using the other boy's identity. The teen actors are believable and the scenarios are realistic. While the program doesn't go into much detail about preventative measures, school involvement, or legalities, the hosts reiterate the message that it is easy to lose control of texts and photos, and that nothing is secure or private. The supplemental CD includes scene summaries, fact sheets, tests, and more. This polished production highlights the pitfalls of sexting.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia Jr. Sr. High School, NY