(O-33) Sexting in young adults’ social networks in Brazil

Abstract Introduction/Objective This exploratory study investigates the circulation of nudes in brazilian young adults (18-26 years) and associated factors of distress. It aims to map sexting practices, their motivations, and correlations with Problematic Internet Use (PIU), investigating behaviors and perceptions associated with sending, receiving, storing, and sharing nudes. Materials and Methods A mixed-methods approach with concomitant triangulation was employed. Data was collected with 94 participants using an online questionnaire and the Internet Addiction Test, during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with the Snowball method. It analyzed sociodemographic data (age, education, gender, sexual orientation, relationship status) and frequencies of nudes-related behaviors. Quantitative data was statistically correlated, and qualitative data underwent content analysis. Results A negative correlation was found between Problematic Internet Use and body satisfaction. A significant portion of participants reported sending (89.4%) and receiving (87.2%) nudes. Sharing with third parties (17.0%) and groups (11.7%) was less frequent. Qualitative analysis revealed four thematic categories: (1) feeling pressured, (2) nudes as a condition for social contact, (3) conformity to body standards, and (4) fear of undue exposure/loss of control. Non-heterosexual men showed higher frequency of undue exposure. Conclusions The study highlights the negative impact of undue exposure, the link between sexting and body satisfaction dynamics and differences in gender and sexual minorities. It emphasizes the need for discussion on data protection, power dynamics in relationships and the impact of the use of technology on body image. Further research is called on this matter, with ramifications in the production of pornographic content by users and the effects of the pornification of bodies in social media. Financing No conflict.