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You might think that everyone is doing it and feel pressured into joining in—but not everyone is doing it and there are some very good reasons not to join in. 
  1. They can never be deleted. Once you have sent an image you have no control over who they share it with, and who that person shares it with, and who they share it with, etc. Imagine if it got back to your school principal or your parents (this has happened).
  2. It may be shared without your consent. Just because someone promises not to share an image, doesn't mean that they will keep that promise.
  3. They can be used as revenge or blackmail. Ex-boyfriends have been known to post images of their exes to get back at them. Images can also be used to coerce you into doing something you don't want to. They may threaten to share the images if you don't do what they want you to.
  4. It can lead to humiliation, guilt, regret, etc. Many teens have been bullied or teased because of images they've sent that have been shared around the whole school. 
  5. It can be a crime if the person is under 18. According to Legal Aid WA, 'It is against the law to take, keep, send or ask for a sexualised image of a young person who is under the age of 18 years old, even if they consent. If you are under the age of 18, it is also against the law to take, keep or send a sexualised image of yourself (for example, a selfie).'
  6. It can affect your employment opportunities. Most prospective employers will check your online presence before hiring you (or not).
For more information see:
https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/staying-safe/sending-nudes-sexting
https://www.esafety.gov.au/educators/classroom-resources/be-deadly-online/sending-nudes-sexting
https://www.legalaid.wa.gov.au/find-legal-answers/young-people/sex-and-law/selfies-and-sexting

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