Document Type
Master's Culminating Experience
Publication Date
2013
Abstract
Recent research indicates that teenagers rely on electronic media for information about sexual health. In the present study the author examined the online information-seeking behaviors of male and female teenagers on two Internet message boards. Content analyses were conducted on user questions about pregnancy, birth control and sexually transmitted infections. Results indicated that (1) teens are very concerned about pregnancy but are less concerned about STIs, and (2) teens are not comfortable with negotiating condom use or STI testing with sexual partners. The outcomes from this study support the previous findings that teens do discuss sexual health on the Internet and shows that they specifically turn to the Internet with questions and anxieties regarding pregnancy and birth control options. These results indicate that sexual education should place more emphasis on training teenagers how to talk to their potential sexual partners about the importance of birth control options and STI testing before engaging in sexual activities.
Repository Citation
Kruse, J. A. (2013). The Birds, the Bees and the STDs: A Content Analysis of Teenage Sexual Health Internet Message Boards. Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio.
