Adolescence and Online Sexual Behavior

Adolescence, the age between 10-19 years of life, though a healthy stage of life, sees significant death, illness, and injury. With easier online access, there is an increased online sexual behavior that has played a role in the social and sexual development of adolescents. A theoretical study by Dawn Marie Murphy and colleagues has been published online.

Objective of the Study

The objective of the study was to explore and understand the relationship between sexting behavior and adolescent mental health and well-being. Adolescent sexuality encompasses multiple biological, cognitive, and psychosocial dimensions, which begin during the onset of puberty and end with the attainment of adulthood. Understanding this behavior is crucial for maintaining mental health.

Methodology

The researchers conducted a constructive grounded theory study. Participants aged 18-22 were selected for the study, providing reflective and recollective experiences throughout their adolescence.

Findings

Researchers engaged in evaluating the culture of teen sexting and materialized a central process and grounded theory. They included six primary processes:

• Engaging in the culture of teen sexting
• Identifying motivating factors
• Forming feelings and perceptions
• Acknowledging and managing
• Connecting mental health and sexting
• Finding a Sexual Self

Conclusion

The researchers concluded that "Sexting is part of teen culture and normal adolescent sexual growth and development. Acknowledging sexting as a culture and normal part of sexual growth and development will assist pediatric nurse practitioners in engaging teens in conversations about sexting, helping them to navigate the risks of sexting and find healthy ways to manage sexting behavior".

Recommendations

They also suggested that adolescents who may struggle with working through tensions experienced during sexting and those who may be at increased risk for negative outcomes from sexting need help. Priorities for future research must include the development of valid and reliable tools to assist nurse practitioners and health care providers in assessing and discussing sexting with teens within a context of normal sexual growth and development.

Further Information

For further information, visit: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedhc.2020.11.010