Be honest about sexting

Sexting is the sending or receiving of nude or seminude images or sexually explicit text messages. Sexting can happen between people who are dating. Sometimes, one person pressures another into sexting to prove his or her feelings. A person also might send this kind of image or message to another without asking for consent.

Sexting can cause emotional distress for everyone involved. An image or message meant for one person can be forwarded and distributed widely — and once it's in circulation, there's no way to control it. A photo or message could resurface years later, causing embarrassment or problems with work or school.

Talk to your teen about sexting. Start by asking what he or she knows and explain the consequences, which could involve law enforcement. Teach your teen to be strong and resist peer pressure to sext. Tell your teen to avoid sending anything electronically that he or she wouldn't want the whole world to see.