Sexting: Teen trend explored on today's Dr. Phil show

Parents, in case you've missed all of the other shows aimed at educating you on the latest teen craze called sexting, you'll want to tune in or Tivo Dr. Phil today. Sexting is the act of sending nude or sexual photos via the cell phone or other electronic devices. Tyra, GMA, and Today have all had segments on the topic.

This seemingly fun and harmless activity has landed some teens in jail on child pornography charges. Once convicted, the offender must register as a sex offender. This type of charge can be leveled whether the teen sends or receives the photo(s) in some cases.




In addition to the legal issues, some of the teenagers find themselves in the cross hairs of those who enjoy ridiculing others. One young woman hanged herself because of the overwhelming and negative attention she encountered after a nude photo of her made the rounds through her high school.

Dr Phil devotes today's show to educating parents on the dangers of sexting. Parents routinely assume that their child would never be involved in sexting and other dangerous trends teenagers engage in but most of the parents who have been interviewed on other shows regarding the subject admit to being mistaken with sometimes dire consequences.

This is your chance to learn about the practice of sexting so that you can intervene, if necessary, before your child makes a mistake that cannot be undone. Sometimes children have to be protected from themselves and the peer pressure they face daily.

Wired Safety is a website offering simple tips to parents designed to protect kids. As the Good Morning America episode revealed, even pre-teen children are taking shocking pictures and videos and forwarding them with their cell phones or other electronic devices.

Dr. Parry Aftab of Wired Safety has offered the following suggestions for parents.

Google: your child's first and last name in quotes Ex: "Jane Doe"
search screen names and address as well
your child's cell phone number in quotes Ex: "555-123-1212"
"Google Desktop" Download free software
Look for *avi for videos and *gpg for images
Visit www.wiredsafety.com and www.getgamesmart.com for other tips

Most importantly, parents should have a frank discussion with their children and discuss the pitfalls of sexting.



In related news, Oprah will be interviewing 14-year old children who claim that they are ready to have sex.

Not a myth: GPS can lead to home break-ins!

Actress Aasha Davis' Sister Missing Under Suspicious Circumstances

'Friday Night Lights' actress Aasha Davis' sister, Lesley Ann Herring, has been missing for seven weeks. Davis, listed as her sister's emergency contact at work, was notified once Herring failed to show up at work two consecutive days.

Aasha Davis, who has also guest starred on 'Grey's Anatomy', appeared on television with police to plead for the public's assistance in finding her beloved sister. She also has a blog featuring pictures of Lesley and sentimental messages from family members and friends.


Herring is married to Lyle Herring who also disappeared for a short time but resurfaced without his wife. The long dreadlocks he wore had been cut. The police are frustrated with the lack of concern and cooperation exhibited by Herring in the disappearance of his wife.

Lesley Ann Herring's family is asking anyone with information regarding her disappearance or whereabouts to call (213) 972-2915.

Fighting Foreclosure: "Produce the note!"

Homeowners trying to fend off mortgage lenders that are trying to foreclose on their home have been finding power in these three words... "Produce the note." Thanks to Florida attorney, Chris Hoyer, this delay tactic may give struggling homeowners the time they need to find a way to save their homes from being repossessed by the bank. Visit Hoyer's website, Consumer Warning Network, for more information and to obtain the "Produce the note" paperwork. The tactic is working for some consumers because the bank holding the note may not be able to produce the original signed note showing that the homeowner is actually liable for the loan. Additional information can also be found at ABC.com

Send a Soldier a Holiday Greeting Card

The Red Cross, with help from Pitney Bowes, is conducting it's campaign to send a million greeting cards to American service members, veterans and their families stateside and worldwide. Until Dec 10, the public can send cards without inserts, including glitter or money, to the address listed below. Care packages should not be sent, either. Please use the proper amount of postage. For additional details and instructions or to download and print a free card, please visit the American Red Cross website.


Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, Md. 20791-5456

Cards will be screened and sorted prior to being delivered in time for Christmas.

Links:

American Red Cross

ABC News

Yahoo Shine

Walter Reed Army Medical Center