Review by Choice Review
Few other social media-related concerns obsess US society more than sexting. It is considered to be a "technological, legal, sexual, and moral crisis." While Hansinoff (communications, Univ. of Colorado, Denver) agrees that sexting is a major social concern, she argues that it is primarily an issue of privacy and agency. It is victim blaming when sexting results in revenge pornography and the victim is accused, just as many victims of rape and violence have been blamed. Hansinoff shows that regardless of their age, people send sexually suggestive images to others because, although studies show they actually understand the risk, they still trust the recipient of their message. Therefore, she argues that it is inappropriate to apply child pornography laws against sexting youth. Simultaneously, recognizing girls' agency--their right to produce and consume sexual contents--is also important. Such arguments can be seen as controversial, but the author's aim is to propose alternative ways to deal with gender and sexual victimization, to think about youth's rights for self-expression, and to respect their consent and privacy. Hasinoff also provides practical recommendations for concerned readers, legislators and prosecutors, and teachers and educators. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Most levels/libraries. --Yuya Kiuchi, Michigan State University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
