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Gender Differences in the Association Between Sexting and Self-Harm Behavior Among Taiwanese Adolescents
Yu-Chuan Chiu1, Chun-Hao Liu2, Shan-Mei Chang3,4
1Department of Psychiatry, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
Psychiatry Investigation
|August 21, 2025
Summary
This study found that sexting behaviors, particularly non-consensual or pressured sexting, are linked to increased self-harm risk in adolescents. Gender significantly influences this association, with females showing higher risks.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent mental health
- Cyberpsychology
- Public health
Background:
- Sexting is increasingly prevalent among adolescents.
- Previous research suggests a link between sexting and negative mental health outcomes.
- Gender differences in adolescent behaviors and mental health warrant investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between various sexting behaviors and self-harm among Taiwanese adolescents.
- To investigate gender differences in the association between sexting and self-harm.
- To identify specific sexting behaviors associated with elevated self-harm risk.
Main Methods:
- A two-stage stratified sampling of 5,190 adolescents (aged 11-18) in Taiwan.
- Online questionnaires assessed sexting, cyberbullying, and self-harm.
- Statistical analyses included univariable, multivariable linear regression, and two-way interaction models to assess gender effects.
Main Results:
- 2.5% of adolescents reported sexting in the past year; 1.7% sent own images/videos.
- Non-consensual sexting (1.0%) and pressured sexting (0.9%) were reported.
- Female gender, sending own content, non-consensual, and pressured sexting were significantly associated with higher self-harm scores.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first to explore gender differences in sexting and self-harm associations in a non-Western context.
- The impact of sexting on self-harm risk differs between male and female adolescents.
- Specific types of sexting behaviors carry distinct risks for adolescent self-harm.
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