Media Use and Risky Sexual Behaviors in Adolescence

Background and Aim: The purpose was to understand the role of media use in the development of risky sexual behaviors during adolescence.Methods: This review study was done with the method of gathering data by targeted research among scientific data bases PubMed, Science direct, Pro Quest, Elsevier, Google scholar.Results: Recent studies have specifically looked at sexual behavior happening through media usage. Studies were able to link media use and enjoyment with sexting and sexual behaviors. The following social media behaviors were positively associated with sexting behaviors: enjoyment of social media, using the phone to access social media, sending private online messages, searching for places online to meet potential partners, flirting with someone online, having an online blog, and using the internet for long distance romantic relationships . Those who participated in sexting also participated in other online activities more frequently and were currently and/or previously sexually active. Mobile technology was considered the primary method of communication and the internet was a source of that connection in the effort of finding a potential romantic partner and maintaining the relationship. Risky sexual behaviors can lead to adverse consequences that can not only affect health but overall mental well-being. Peer victimization is likely to be common in the presence of risky sexual behaviors, specifically when engagements in activities are glorified and/or devalued. Motivations to use social media primarily for romantic relationships is associated with a greater likelihood of online aggression experiences.Conclusion: Findings from this research are important for multi-systemic prevention and intervention efforts aimed at promoting adolescent resiliency, particularly among vulnerable youth who are most susceptible to media influences.

Keywords:

Risky Sexual Behaviors , Media Use , Adolescence