Talking to Your Child About Pornography and Sexting

Due to increased online activity and availability of smartphones, more and more children and young people now have access to pornography. And for some, they may also be involved in ‘sexting’.

Definitions

• Pornography (also known as porn): Pictures or videos of naked, or semi-naked people (also called nudes) or people carrying out sexual activities. These are predominantly ‘real’ people but increasingly, these images or videos may also be AI-generated.
• Sexting: Sending sexual messages, photos, or videos, either of yourself or another person

Why do children look at pornography?

Children are naturally curious and want to understand more about sex as they grow up. They may feel embarrassed to ask you about sex and relationships and search online instead. Some children will be actively looking for pornography while others stumble across it accidentally.

What is the problem with pornography?

Viewing pornography can give children distorted and confusing ideas about intimate relationships. It can lead to negative behaviour towards their partner and make them think that consent (giving permission for sexual activities) is unimportant.

More information about consent:

• For primary aged children: Why It’s Never Too Early to Talk About Consent
• Older children and teenagers: Talking To Your Teen About Consent