Self Respect and Sexting: Take 2

While it may be true, especially publicly speaking, that "sexting" is a very negative thing for young women to do, I don't feel this is always the case. Even if it's not "true love" or if the couple isn't going to be "together forever," isn't it still her choice? I mean, as far as the wide spread public goes, sexting is a bad thing; but that's just the public view. No matter if the relationship will last, if two people have a certain respect for each other, then I say why not?

Now, this doesn't say that it is something me and my boyfriend have done (mom, you can stop having a heart attack) but why does it have to mean that a girl feels so utterly crappy about herself that she has to send these photos to get a positive image? Sure, sometimes that is the case; but then you're ignoring the other part - the part that the media isn't alerted to because they don't leak it. The part that is kept just between two people.

And hell, has it never been thought up that a young girl or woman wanted to take these pictures? That she takes them because she does feel beautiful, sexy, strong, or empowered? That maybe she just wants to share that empowerment with the guy or girl that she loves, or at least cares for?

Why can't we tell girls the facts: that it's not safe, that it might get leaked and they could get slut shamed? Why is it never mentioned that some women take these pictures and don't share them? Or that it's better done in a relationship with a mutual respect, not just a "oh baby I love you please help me cum." People shouldn't tell these girls what they can and cannot do, but encourage them to make healthy decisions for themselves, not just because what they're doing upsets some people. Focus on them and their well being, maybe then the message will get through.