Are you referring to FetLife? If so, I have seen the same phenomenon!
It makes me think of an interesting study where a feminist scholar interviewed a large amount of cis-gendered hetero-men who admitted to sending dick pics. Aside from the few who had bad intentions, most simply sent the photo because they hoped to receive a nude in return. They didn’t realize the photo would be read as an imposition or even harassment.
When I read that study I thought about how different bodies and genders are thought to be more available for consumption than others. For example, porn has overly sexualized queer identities to the point where many queer identified people are thought to be more promiscuous than straight people. Women’s bodies are often used to sell products that have nothing to do with bodily health, hygiene, or makeup. Which results in society being taught that certain bodies are more available to be seen or accessed then others. Teaching women or queerly gendered people to protect their bodies. It can also be why a nude photo of breasts on FetLife is more an act of liberation where someone is owning their sexuality, but isn’t meant to be an invitation for nude photos from a third party.
Meanwhile, men are also experiencing their bodies being reduced to objects. Though this it has only become a relevant practice in marketing over the last fifty years. As more cis-male bodies are used to sell products, I think more men will realize how important it is for them to feel like they can control their body/sexuality as well. I think we may see more men protecting their bodies and boundaries as male bodies continue to be consumed and eroticized. It’s all very interesting to think about!
Of course, in the right context between consenting adults sexts are wonderful. I am so glad you enjoyed reading about the intimacy and visual bonding that transpires with sexting. I think it can be such a profound way to establish trust and solidify affection in a relationship.
Thanks so much for reading the article, glad you enjoyed it!
