Can txting b bad 4 spec. Ed stdnts? Sexting and its implications for children with disabilities

Technology trends and advancements enable new innovative interaction between student-to-student and student-to-teacher. More recently, the infusion of cell phones as a way to promote knowledge has soared. Unfortunately, this technological advancement has also been linked to the misuse of cell phones. For example, since more students have access to cell phones and more cell phones have camera options it is becoming easier to take and send digital images. Some students are sending sexually explicit digital photos, called sexting. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (2009), sexting refers to "youth sending explicit messages or sexually explicit photos of themselves to others or to their peers" (para. 1). Today, many teens use cell phones, which necessitates educating them on their roles and responsibilities of cell phone usage. This chapter begins by exploring teenagers' usage of cell phones and its connection to sexting, followed by a discussion on sexting and its impact on students with disabilities. The consequence of sexting can be severe and current legislation being used as a way to prosecute sexting offenses will be discussed. Suggestions and recommendations for educators, principals, and parents on how to prevent sexting are also provided.