Social Media & Young Adults

1. Amanda Lenhart Pew Internet Project OSTWG, NTIA, Dept of Commerce February 4, 2010 Social Media & Young Adults

2. 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

14. 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

15. 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

16. Sexting Scenarios • Between two romantic partners, as a part of, instead of, or as a prelude to sex – never leaves couple • Between two romantic partners – but shared with others • Between two people where at least one would like to be in a relationship – shows interest

22. Twitter

29. Amanda Lenhart Pew Internet & American Life Project http://www.pewinternet.org @amanda_lenhart Thanks!“Teens and Sexting”“Social Media & Mobile Internet Use Among Teens and Young Adults”