What are the benefits of sexual content in the media?

The benefits of sexual content in the media center around using media outlets for educating the public about sexual health and responsibilities.

Mass media campaigns using TV, radio and print have played a major role in HIV/AIDS prevention. By educating people about how HIV is transmitted, whether they are at risk, and what they can do to protect themselves, many of these campaigns have shown to be widely effective in changing sexual health behavior. (see this study)

Another media campaign encouraged parents to talk to their kids about sex. These messages were effective in generating more discussion between parents and kids about teenage pregnancy, birth control and contraception, and sexually transmitted diseases. (see this study)

Entertainment media has also included responsible messages about sexual behavior. In 2001, the popular sitcom Friends aired an episode where condoms were featured in the storyline. 40% of teens who watched the show with their parents, and 20% of teens who watched the episode alone, remembered the health information they heard. (see this study)

There are many benefits of having access to accurate sexual health information on the Internet. Teens may feel embarassed to ask their parents questions about sexual health, but they may be more likely to research the issue online in private. Children's Hospital Boston offers two reputable sites for teen sexual health information: Young Women's Health and Young Men's Health.

Next: Tips for managing sexual media content

 

CMCH resources on sexual behavior and media are made possible
by a grant from the Aerosmith Foundation.