Sexting 'leads to greater relationship satisfaction': Over 80% of US adults have sexted in the past year

Over 80% of adults have 'sexted' within the last year, a new survey has revealed. Research presented at the American Psychological Association's 123rd Annual Convention shows that over eight out of ten adults in the US have sent saucy messages within the last 12 months after researchers surveyed 870 people ranging from 18- to 82-years old.

"Given the possible implications, both positive and negative, for sexual health, it is important to continue investigating the role sexting plays in current romantic and sexual relationships," said co-author Emily Stasko of Drexel University, who presented the research. Stasko, along with Pamela Geller, associate professor of psychology, ob/gyn and public health at Drexel University, defined sexting as "the sending or receiving of sexually suggestive or explicit content via text message, primarily using a mobile device."

They found that 88% of respondents had sexted in their lifetime while 82% had done it in the last year. Additionally, three quarters said that their sexting was a part of a committed relationship and 42% said that had participated as part of a 'casual' commitment.

Furthermore, Stasko and Geller noted that more sexting had a correlation with greater sexual satisfaction, especially for those in a relationship, as well as relationship satisfaction. "This research indicates that sexting is a prevalent behaviour that adults engage in for a variety of reasons," said Stasko. "These findings show a robust relationship between sexting and sexual and relationship satisfaction."