Within my own research , my intention is to begin discussions using the term ‘ sexual image sharing ’ and ask each group of young people for their preferred term . I will then use their chosen term within each group , allowing the young participants to determine their own meanings without ascribing adult-centric meanings . In my thesis I will avoid using these words outside of direct quotation , to attempt to prevent them becoming imbued with adultcentric meanings .
I also suggest that official publications , including legislation , statutory guidance and academic works , adopt the term ‘ sexual image sharing .’ This term is more precise than ‘ sexting ’ by virtue of referring only to image sharing . Also , it is neither a term that young people themselves use , nor is it one that they have rejected , in the way that they have rejected the term ‘ sexting ’. 30 Therefore , whilst this term could become imbued with adultcentric meanings of risk , it would not silence young people in the process by taking their own terms and re-defining them .
In this section I have explored the meaning of the term ‘ sexting ’ as a way that adults separate their own legal engagement in sexual image sharing from the illegal and risky behaviour in young people . I have suggested that the term ‘ sexual image sharing ’ as a more precise alternative .
‘ Child Pornography ’ The term ‘ child pornography ’ is problematic because the word pornography implies the consensual creation of images or film for another person ’ s sexual gratification . 31 As discussed above , according to the PCA and supported by case law , 32 no one under the age of eighteen can consent to this , indicating that ‘ child pornography ’ is not an appropriate term .
In Western societies , the sexual abuse of children is frequently characterised as being worse than murder . 33 Therefore , any terminology
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