Exploring Perceptions of Acceptability of Sexting in Same-Sex, Bisexual, Heterosexual Relationships and Communities

Body image self-consciousness and sexting among heterosexual and non-exclusively heterosexual individuals

“…With regards to sexual orientation, some studies indicate that sexting is more frequent among non-exclusively heterosexual adolescents (Lee et al, 2015), men who have sex with men (Bauermeister et al, 2014), and that sexting, in general, is considered more acceptable in non-exclusively heterosexual communities (Hertlein et al, 2015). A number of reasons for the increased proclivity towards sexting within non-exclusively heterosexual orientation groups have been suggested.…”

“…A number of reasons for the increased proclivity towards sexting within non-exclusively heterosexual orientation groups have been suggested. These include visibility management (Hertlein et al, 2015; Twist et al, 2017) whereby individuals can choose to whom they present their sexual orientation and preference, and can expand potential social and relationship circles beyond those personally known to them from face-to-face interactions. In addition, using orientation-specific relationship mobile applications to initiate contact can facilitate relationships and may be protective against stigma and discrimination (Chong et al, 2015; Hertlein et al, 2015).…”

“…These include visibility management (Hertlein et al, 2015; Twist et al, 2017) whereby individuals can choose to whom they present their sexual orientation and preference, and can expand potential social and relationship circles beyond those personally known to them from face-to-face interactions. In addition, using orientation-specific relationship mobile applications to initiate contact can facilitate relationships and may be protective against stigma and discrimination (Chong et al, 2015; Hertlein et al, 2015). However, data regarding the frequency of sexting behaviours within non-exclusively heterosexual communities including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) is limited, and hence, requires further exploration.…”

The State of Sex Research in MFT and Family Studies Literature: A Seventeen‐Year Content Analysis

“…Technology and Cybersex ‐ Clinicians should consider Internet sexual activities as having a high impact on intimate relationships (Parker & Wampler, ). ‐ Training programs need to consider cybersex in relationships as predictors of relationship satisfaction (Goldberg, Peterson, Rosen, & Sara, ). ‐ Acceptance of sexting practices in relationships is viewed more positively by same‐sex relationships compared to heterosexual relationships (Hertlein, Shadid, & Steelman, ). …”

“…-Acceptance of sexting practices in relationships is viewed more positively by same-sex relationships compared to heterosexual relationships (Hertlein, Shadid, & Steelman, 2015).…”