Social Media & Young Adults

Amanda Lenhart

Pew Internet Project

OSTWG, NTIA, Dept of Commerce

February 4, 2010

Social Media ‘n’ Youth Feb 2010

Methodology

Two surveys both completed in September 2009:

• 800 Teens 12-17 and a parent or guardian – RDD w/ cell phone sample

• 2253 American adults 18 and older – RDD with cell phone sample & Spanish language interviewing

Social Media ‘n’ Youth

Social Media ‘n’ Youth

Social Media ‘n’ Youth

Social Media ‘n’ Youth

Sending Sexts

• No difference by gender

• Oldest teens most likely to have sent– 8% of 17 year olds– 4% of 12 year olds

• 17% who pay for all the costs of the phone send sexts vs. 3% of others

Social Media ‘n’ Youth

Receiving Sexts

• Again, no gender differences and increases by age– 4% of 12 year olds– 20% of 16 year olds– 30% of 17 year olds

• Sending texts, having unlimited texting plan increases receipt

Social Media ‘n’ Youth

Sexting Scenarios

1. Between two romantic partners, as a part of, instead of, or as a prelude to sex – never leaves couple

2. Between two romantic partners – but shared with others

3. Between two people where at least one would like to be in a relationship – shows interest

Twitter

Thanks! “Teens and Sexting”

“Social Media & Mobile Internet Use Among Teens and Young Adults”

Amanda LenhartPew Internet & American Life Projecthttp://www.pewinternet.org@amanda_lenhart