Sexting, rejection sensitivity and social motivation among dating and non-dating young adults: a comparative analysis

Abstract

Sexting is an indicator of sexual conduct. The prevalence of sexting is increasing with every passing day. However, there appears to be minimal literature in existence for a rather popular concept among the youth in present times. This study aims to learn about the gender differences in sexting behaviours along with the dominance of the same in dating and non-dating young adults. It also identifies the prospective repercussions associated with sexting, consensual or otherwise. The study involved 200 working and non-working, heterosexual male and female participants between the age of 18 and 30 years. A survey including Sexual Behaviour Scale, Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire, and Social Motivation Questionnaire was administered. Results showed that there exists a significant positive correlation between sexting behaviour and rejection sensitivity. Conversely, there is no correlation between sexting behaviour and social motivation. In addition to this, there exists a significant difference in sexting behaviours between the genders, although, there is no significant difference in sexting behaviours on the grounds of relationship status. Therefore, it is observed that higher the sexting behaviour, higher is the rejection sensitivity. Moreover, there is also a fluctuation in sexting behaviour with a difference in gender but no difference in sexting behaviours with variations in relationship status.