Study: Many children exposed to pornography and sexting

A recent study conducted by the State Media Authority of North Rhine-Westphalia reveals that a significant number of children, aged 11-17, are encountering pornography and sexting. The study surveyed 3,000 participants and found that 42% had seen pornographic material, marking an increase from the previous year.

Additionally, 25% of the participants reported receiving sexual content through sexting. Of particular concern is the fact that younger children are increasingly affected by these issues.

Shockingly, the study also highlighted the fact that children and adolescents are not only consuming pornographic material, but also producing and distributing it themselves. The first exposure to these explicit materials often happens involuntarily or accidentally.

The director of the State Media Authority, Tobias Schmid, emphasizes the need for protecting minors and calls for more education and awareness on this matter. Parents and educators are urged to understand the ease with which children can access explicit content and take measures to safeguard them.