By Elise Murphy and Samienta Pierre-Vil

Ten years ago, cell phones were considered a luxury. Today some would argue they are a necessity, and others would say that cell phones have become a form of entertainment with available features such as: texting, cameras, internet, games and ringtones. Cell phones are no longer used just for calling; and these features have become a problem among teens, for teens do not fully understand the dangers that occur with a simple tap of the send button.

The latest social problem among teenagers is “sex-ting.” “Sex-ting” is sending or receiving nude or semi-nude photos through multimedia messaging via cell phones. Images and videos are sent out to boyfriends or girlfriends across the country. Overt material, that no mother would ever want to see, is sent to one person then forwarded to another and another. The endless chances for nude photos or videos to end up in the wrong hands are causing major harm to people across the United States and the world.

The Disney Channel is the U.S.’s largest celebrity-making machine. With the success of actors Miley Cyrus, Zac Efron, and countless others, Disney is creating daily teen role models. However stars with ‘talent’ have faced scandal. The cookie cutter image no longer stands with Miley Cyrus (a.k.a Hannah Montana), Vanessa Hudgens of “High School Musical”, or Adrienne Bailon of the “Cheetah Girls” for the reason that all have been faced with the embarrassment of semi-nude or nude photos being leaked to the press and televised world wide. Their actions are solely based upon their own decision; however, once the pictures are sent, the public can access them.

With stars and role models like the Disney teens, it is not a question that of course ‘monkey see, monkey do’ will occur. One can dress like Miley Cyrus, why not act like her also? This growing epidemic of innocence stolen due to curiosity and lack of knowledge should not be taken lightly. Children as young as twelve have been caught up in the world of searching for one’s sexuality through bearing it all for others. Children are becoming teens, teens are becoming adults, and adults are stuck with dealing with adolescents growing too old too fast.

Recently six students from Pennsylvania were charged with child pornography for sending and receiving inappropriate material. Although this charge was later dropped, a proper punishment that fits the crime is still in the works. Westborough Assistant District Attorney commented on this case by saying, “the law has not caught up with technology.” Tthe issue that underlies this growing epidemic is the purpose of both perpetrators, because “sex-ting” is illegal. Even though it may occur among children rather than adults, the sending of explicit and inappropriate material is still considered a crime. However, the motives are usually very different.

What is missing in teens around the country is the self respect for one’s own body. Peer pressure to do what others do will never end, but the ability to overcome it can happen. The irony that lies behind this epidemic is that although one can break away from peer pressure, it does not only occur in school but in the media. The media is the root of this problem because sexuality and being sexual is what is ‘hip’ and the inquisitiveness to follow trend is intriguing.

An anonymous survey was conducted recently at Westborough High School for both students and administrators. When concluded nine of forty five students have either sent or received explicit photos. Of the forty five students about 75% knew someone who has “sexted” before. With these findings it is somewhat startling and overwhelming to know students have partaken in this misunderstood crime. The faculty survey produced results that were not surprising. Nearly one hundred percent of the returned surveys believed this crime to be heinous, offensive and disrespectful to the human body. One staff member simply stated, “Kids are playing with things they don’t understand.”

Should teenagers be held accountable like adults? Should “sex-ting” be considered child pornography if it is occurring among children? If so, who should be charged, the sender or receiver? What is a proper punishment? Five years in prison like sexual predators are facing now? Questions such as these are left un-answered.

“Sex-ting” may seem harmless to teenagers. A girlfriend sends a picture to boyfriend; boyfriend likes it and sends one back, except instead of ending there somehow the picture is now sent to one person then to another and so on and so forth. Even though it may be meant for one person’s eyes, never count on it. Going from fifteen, young and naive, to thirty years old should not occur over night. Youth is something that should be held near and dear, not thrown away with the need to follow the never ending trend of “sexy” and what truly is “hot.” Naïve is the key word that should coincide with “sex-ting.” Kids do not understand that pictures can last forever, and one press of a delete button will not erase something that can last forever.

Note: “Good Morning” America will be having a daily feature the week of April 13-17 on this growing problem. Starting at 7:00 am on ABC “sex-ting” will be the headlining feature, where parents, teens, and professionals will be talking about the matter.