Adult sexting: Couple experiences and therapeutic possibilities

Although sexting is often framed in media accounts and everyday talk as a problematic and/or frivolous activity, participants in this research study offer evidence that extends the building body of research pointing to positive qualities of adult sexting. Interview and survey data from 78 age-, sexual orientation-, and ethnically-diverse adults were analyzed using contrapuntal analysis to consider the personal benefits and limitations of sexting. Results indicate four tensions illustrating the opportunities and risks associated with adult sexting. Specifically, adult sexters described two tensions with partners: one where novelty is appreciated but where crossing over to grotesque behaviors and suggestions is a possibility; and another where sexual fantasy was positively explored but where misunderstandings between fantasy and reality were possible. Participants also described a tension between the personal pleasure they found with sexting and the shame invoked by culture as well as the possibility that their private interactions could become public. In addition to the practical benefits sexting can offer relationships, participant accounts also indicate sexting practices might prove beneficial to both sex therapy and sex education practices as well. Integration into existing sex therapy models is explored.