When it's part of a happy relationship, that is
The science:
Researchers analyzed data from 160 adults to find out why people sext. They discovered three main reasons: for foreplay, to build reassurance, and as part of a give-and-take common in healthy relationships. (For example, if your SO gets particularly excited about sexting, you may indulge him or her in the same way you might see a movie he or she is into even if it's not your first pick.)
Expert insight:
People tend to over-dramatize the negative aspects of sexual behaviors, says study author Joe Currin, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychological sciences at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. His research shows that sexting can be a healthy way to strengthen connections between two people, as long as it's being used as a way to enhance a happy relationship.
The bottom line:
Sexting can be problematic when it's done as a way to compensate for what you consider to be personal shortcomings (for example, you feel you aren't good enough for your SO). In that case, you might consider therapy to figure out what's driving your efforts, Currin says.
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