Sexting/bullying survey of Ottawa teens

HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD) - A new report detailing risky behaviors of kids and teens shows sexting may be more common than you think.

The 2011 Ottawa County Youth Assessment Survey asked eighth, 10th and 12th graders a series of online questions regarding numerous topics.

Out of those surveyed --

• 22% said within the last year they have sent a sexual message via text, social media or email
• 12% have shared nude photos or videos sent to them with others
• 9% have sent nude photos of videos of themselves out in to cyber space

Sending sexually explicit photos via text messages is commonly called sexting and it's a serious offense, especially with minors.

Creating sexual pictures of anyone 17 and younger is a felony that carries a maximum of 20 years in prison.

Sending and having those photos are also felonies.

When it comes to bullying, nearly 25% of those kids said they have been bullied, and nearly 16% said it has happened at school.