Sexting has become a popular way of showing affection ever since the word entered the Oxford Dictionary back in 2011. Since then, the action of sexting has blown up among young people and smartphone users. As it turns out, we're all sexting a lot more often than usual these days, and that's quite okay.
Sexting is very popular among those in their 20s, late teens, and those who are into online dating. In addition, these individuals are more prone to divulge in sending raunchy videos and picture sexts to their significant other.
A new report published by the Pew Research Center claims that sexting is more popular among those aged 18 to 24 for the first time in its history. This age group surpassed smartphone users in their late 30s and 20s. The increase in youngsters who are sending and receiving sex related text messages have jumped to 44 percent from the low point of 26 percent in the year 2012. That's a huge climb, and it will likely increase in the coming years.
Furthermore, Pew's survey found out that 20 percent of smartphone users claim they receive nearly nude or completely nude images, in comparison to the 15 percent back in 2012. In addition, 9 percent of the smartphone users surveyed said they sent a sext, that is up from 6 percent in 2012. According to Pew's report, these changes are known as "statistically significant increases."
The report also stated that smartphone users were far more likely to send a raunchy text message or to send nude images and videos, compared to other mobile phone owners. Furthermore, of all the users of online dating surveyed, 31 percent said they have sent a sext, while 55 percent said they have received a sext before.
Interestingly enough, singles weren't the only ones taking part in sexting. The research showed that it is also popular among couples. People who have been in a relationship for less than 10 years were more likely to send a sext. Thirty two percent confirmed they do send sexts, compared to the six percent who were in relationships for more than 10 years. It also shows that people in relationships send sexts at almost the same rate compared to those who are single.
The report also said that the Internet is having a huge influence on our relationships; however, not necessarily a good one. According to Pew, 27 percent of couples said the Internet had a major and minor impact on their personal relationship, which is up from 16 percent when compared to a past study in 2005. In addition, 74 percent said these impacts are positive, compared to 84 percent in the 2005 research. Furthermore, 20 percent said the Internet has a negative impact on their relationship, which is up from 13 percent in the 2005 study.
When it comes to younger users, the Internet affects their relationship more. Some experienced increased intimacy due to sexts, while others experienced more arguments due to their partner spending too much time online.
