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Article
Sexting and adult romantic attachment
Computers in Human Behavior (2011)
  • Robert S. Weisskirch, California State University, Monterey Bay
  • Raquel Delevi, California State University, Los Angeles
Abstract
“Sexting” refers to sending and receiving sexually suggestive images, videos, or texts on cell phones. As a means for maintaining or initiating a relationship, sexting behavior and attitudes may be understood through adult attachment theory. One hundred and twenty-eight participants (M = 22 and F = 106), aged 18–30 years, completed an online questionnaire about their adult attachment styles and sexting behavior and attitudes. Attachment anxiety predicted sending texts that solicit sexual activity for those individuals in relationships. Attachment anxiety also predicted positive attitudes towards sexting such as accepting it as normal, that it will enhance the relationship, and that partners will expect sexting. Sexting may be a novel form for expressing attachment anxiety.
Keywords
  • Sexting,
  • Adult attachment,
  • Romantic relationships,
  • Couples,
  • Computer-mediated communication
Disciplines
Publication Date
September, 2011
DOI
10.1016/j.chb.2011.02.008
Citation Information
Robert S. Weisskirch and Raquel Delevi. "Sexting and adult romantic attachment" Computers in Human Behavior Vol. 27 Iss. 5 (2011) p. 1697 - 1701
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/rob-weisskirch/20/