Sexual socialization

This systematic review examined how parents socialize their adolescents' sexual behaviors and attitudes through indirect communication processes.Sexual socialization between parents and adolescents extends beyond formal conversations about sexuality. Understanding indirect sexual socialization can identify messages that may be helpful or harmful to adolescents living in the United States, a culture where family conversations about sex are often uncomfortable and infrequent.We systematically reviewed 41 articles from 2012–2022 that addressed how U.S. parents indirectly socialize their adolescents' sexuality.Parents conveyed messages about sexuality through their behaviors (modeling behaviors and enforcing rules), words (and silence) in everyday conversations, and emotional reactions to sexual topics. These processes reflected parents' own sexualization within contexts in which sexual behavior during adolescence is seen as inappropriate, embarrassing, or private. Some adolescents internalized parents' indirect sexual socialization. However, parents and adolescents are also agentic and sometimes resisted problematic socialization processes.Findings suggest that a cultural discourse of silence on adolescent sexuality leaves parents unprepared for everyday interactions that present socializing opportunities. Overcoming this lack of preparation requires conscious effort on the part of parents and adolescents.Understanding indirect sexual socialization processes allows researchers and practitioners to identify strategies to interrupt problematic intergenerational cycles and to challenge the harmful effects of macrolevel political divisiveness on families and children.

No abstract available

ABSTRACT This study aims to discover how sexual socialization shapes adolescents’ sexual behaviours and attitudes by considering various socialization agents and the sociocultural context of the country. Sexual socialization in adolescents is vital to formulating sexual attitudes and behaviours that determine their health and well-being. However, little is known about how various socialization agents share their norms, ideas, and beliefs about sexuality, influencing adolescents’ sexual attitudes and behaviours from a sociocultural perspective. In order to conduct a qualitative study, in-depth semi-structured interviews were used with 21 young people aged 15 to 24 in the capital of Lao PDR. A thematic analysis presents three significant themes that emerged from the data, including social norms about premarital sex, the taboo on sexual discussion and expression, and the normalization of sexual violence. The findings contribute to theories of sexual socialization and provide suggestions for projects and policies to prevent sexual risk behaviours and sexual violence.

No abstract available

Abstract:Music has historically and culturally served as a tool for Black men to express themselves and tell their stories. Further, music is an integral part of Black culture that provides unique insight into Black men’s ideal sexualities, sexual practices, and their conceptualizations of sex. Thus, this content analysis analyzed the lyrics of Black men’s favorite sex songs from a strength-based, sex-positive perspective to better conceptualize Black men’s sexualities and sexual practices. One hundred six men answered the short-form survey question, “What is your favorite sex song?” Analysis of the song content determined Black men’s favorite sex songs were focused on mutual (29%) and their partner’s pleasure (28%). Black men’s favorite sex songs focused on attentiveness and admiration of partner, fulfilling fantasy, lust and yearning, vocal affirmation and reassurance, risky sex, and desire for intimacy. These findings suggest Black men desire reciprocity, intimacy, and vulnerability during sex.

No abstract available

In the current intersectionality-focused discourse within sexuality research, individuals existing at the convergence of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer+ (LGBTQ+) are often overlooked. Individuals with IDD face difficulties acquiring sexual knowledge and skills due to limited opportunities for sexual socialization, misconceptions concerning sexuality and IDD, lack of comprehensive sexual education, restricted support from staff and caregivers, and a lack of community experiences that facilitate the development of healthy sexuality. When an individual with IDD identifies as LGBTQ+, these disability-related barriers can exacerbate the stigma and discrimination some LGBTQ+ people experience. Using the intimate justice framework, we explore avenues to support and foster inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community for members with IDD. Several recommendations were identified from the literature search, including logistical considerations and using accessible language for outreach events, presentations, workshops, training, and other activities and opportunities for sexuality education while challenging disability-related stigma in LGBTQ+ spaces.

Informed by ecological and Black feminist approaches, this inductive, thematic analysis analyzed narratives from 24 Black college women, ages 18–25, about the sexual socialization they received from multiple agents within and outside of the family. The themes were: Avoidance, Safety and Consent, Fun and Action-Centered Acts, (Mis)Information About Sexual Health, Gendered Norms, and Purity versus Sexual Freedom. The women received messages of avoidance, purity, safety, consent, and gendered norms, from their families and schools. Peers and media socialized women to view sex as fun and action centered. Given the persistent increases in sexually transmitted infections and diseases, and formation of longer-lasting romantic relationships during the college years, it is important for young adult women, including Black women, to receive adequate knowledge and skills to advocate for safe and healthy romantic sexual relationships. Implications of the findings are discussed.

The terms single and singlehood conflate marital (e.g. divorced, widowed, and never married) and relationship (e.g. partnered or not) statuses, complicating researchers’ understandings of their unique impact on women’s lives. Despite qualitative research demonstrating unmarried and unpartnered statuses have distinct implications for women’s sexual socialization, little quantitative research has explored these differences. To address this gap, the current project surveyed 506 unmarried Black women (Mage = 33.02) to explore how common singlehood experiences (dating, motherhood, and intimate partner violence [IPV]) moderated associations between respondents’ media use (television, social media, movies, and magazines) and relationship beliefs. This project focused on Black women because of their high rates of unmarried status and the pervasiveness of media stereotypes of their singlehood. Hierarchical linear regressions and the PROCESS model were used to test two-way interactions of media and singlehood experiences. Ecological systems and cultivation theories guided analyses. Across the dependent variables, media types were differentially associated with measures of relationship beliefs and these associations were differentially moderated by singlehood experiences. Weekly television was the most consistent predictor of relationship beliefs and experience with IPV was the most consistent moderator of associations. Women without partners, children, or experiences of IPV exhibited significant associations between media and relationship beliefs while their more experienced peers did not, suggesting singlehood experiences and media work together to shape unmarried Black women’s sexual socialization, though more work is needed to determine how. Results illuminated key differences between groups of unmarried Black women, complicating current understandings of single status and challenging how singlehood is conceptualized in sexual socialization research.

Theorists suggest that adolescent girls’ sexual socialization can influence sexual risk reduction and positive sexuality development, although adolescent girls’ positive sexuality development is understudied. In this study, we applied a sex-positive framework to explore sexual socialization experiences among a sample of adolescent girls of color recruited from community-based organizations that serve youth with heightened needs (n = 50; Mage = 15.62, range = 12–19; 58% Black/African American; 76% heterosexual; 58% sexually active). Specifically, we examined girls’ reports of messages about sexuality they have received from their teachers, parents, health care providers, and society at large. Participants completed brief, semi-structured qualitative interviews. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Overall, the adolescent girls described how they navigate primarily sex-negative sexual socialization messages from adults to develop positive sexual selves. Within this narrative, we found five themes: (a) Adults deliver one-sided communication that adolescent sex is inappropriate and risky; (b) Gendered messages restrict adolescent girls’ sexuality; (c) Naive adults can’t be trusted; (d) Exclusion of same-gender sexual experiences endangers adolescents who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and with other nonheterosexual orientations (LGBQ+); and (e) Messages about sexual protection can help but may still restrict adolescent girls’ sexual choices. Implications for adolescent girls’ positive sexuality development are discussed.

(Hetero)sexual double standards (SDS) entail that different sexual behaviors are appropriate for men and women. There is large variation in whether people endorse SDS in their expectations about the sexual behavior of women and men (i.e., SDS-norms). To explain these individual differences, we examined associations between SDS-norms of Dutch adolescents (aged 16–20 years, N = 566) and what parents, peers, and the media teach adolescents about appropriate sexual behavior of boys and girls (i.e., SDS-socialization). Adolescents completed an online survey at school. Regarding SDS-socialization, more traditional SDS-norms conveyed by the media and peers, but not of parents, and less perceived sexual activity of female peers, were associated with more traditional SDS-norms. Only for boys, exposure to sexy girls/women on social media and sexual music videos of female artists were associated with more traditional SDS-norms. Thus, SDS-socialization by peers and the media and opposite gender models (for boys) are important in light of adolescents’ SDS-norms.

No abstract available

Adolescent sexual health is often reflected through a problem-oriented lens. This serves to reinforce prevailing sexual scripts and cultural images of disenfranchised youth. Very little is known about the support young people in foster care, particularly youth of color, need to stay sexually healthy and safe. This article presents data on the sources and types of sexual socialization experiences that supported African American transitional age youth in foster care to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Eighteen African American participants (18 to 21-years old) who reported condom use in two quantitative interviews were selected to participate in a qualitative interview. A mapping exercise and thematic analyses were used to identify the participants' sources of support and sexual socialization experiences. The study's findings indicated the youth had a combination of informal and formal sources that conveyed four types of STI/HIV prevention messages: Effective, Affective, Affinity, & Tangible. The majority of the participants (83%) received all four types of STI/HIV prevention messages from adult, partner and/or peer sources. Sources who motivated the participants the most to protect against STIs/HIV had a strong relationship with the youth and communicated openly about safer sex practices. Results of this study provide implications for future research as well as indications for practice that may be incorporated into training for child welfare practitioners, foster parents, kinship caregivers, and others who encounter youth in foster care.

Background: Health research has provided robust evidence of the negative effects caused by facing deceit in sexual-affective relationships. In this regard, several analyses have been conducted addressing psychological, family therapies, and educational interventions to improve marital problems. On the other hand, many investigations have addressed how the preventive socialization program (PSP), framed on the analysis of a dominant coercive discourse that is connected with the promotion of specific traditional masculine models, impacts on young people’s relationships free of violence. However, the link between deceit, health, and the PSP has not yet been analyzed. To cover this gap, a qualitative study has been performed with a methodology framed on the communicative approach. We enrolled heterosexual women and men aged 25 to 42 years old who have been in contact with the PSP and have experienced or know of any cases of deceit. Two different analytical categories emerged from the analysis, which distinguishes between exclusionary and transformative dimensions. Findings show that the majority of people involved in PSP were able to understand the reasons for deceit as well as to take decisions in their further sexual-affective relationships. Therefore, this study corroborates that access to scientific evidence in the framework of PSP is positively impacting interviewees’ health status.

Parents can promote the sexual health of adolescents in a number of well-established ways, such as through sexual communication and parental monitoring. Another unexplored avenue through which parents might influence sexual decision-making among Black girls is gendered-racial socialization-the process through which parents send messages to their Black daughters about what it means to be a Black girl, in part, to improve their self-esteem. In a national, U.S.-based sample of 287 Black girls (Mage = 15.4) and their parents (87.8% female), we examine how two dimensions of gendered-racial socialization (gendered-racial pride socialization; gendered-racial oppression socialization): (a) are related to adolescents' intentions to have early sex and (b) moderate the association of parental communication and monitoring with adolescents' intentions to have early sex. We found Black girls who are exposed to more empowering messages about Black girls and women are less likely to intend to have early sex. Additionally, gendered-racial pride socialization moderated the relationship between parental monitoring and intentions to have sex, such that more monitoring was associated with lower intentions to have early sex among girls low in gendered-racial pride socialization. For girls high in gendered-racial pride socialization, there was no relationship between parental monitoring and sexual intentions. Gendered-racial pride socialization is an important asset in Black families, which can be leveraged to improve the sexual health of Black girls. Future studies are needed to examine the causal, temporal pathways between gendered-racial socialization and sexual health. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

OBJECTIVE The current project aims to enhance our understanding of the well-established relation between fraternity membership and sexual aggression on college campuses. Most prior research has been cross-sectional and unable to distinguish selection and socialization accounts of the relation, and only one prior longitudinal study has simultaneously examined selection and socialization effects. METHOD Fraternity membership, sexual aggression, binge drinking, sociosexual attitudes and behaviors, and perceived peer sexual aggression were assessed for 772 male participants (n = 116 fraternity members) in a longitudinal survey study from the summer prior to college through Year 2 of college. RESULTS Longitudinal path analyses revealed three key findings. First, fraternity membership was prospectively correlated with sexual aggression in Years 1 and 2 of college (socialization effect), controlling for selection effects, when the two prospective paths were constrained to be equivalent. Second, more frequent binge drinking and sociosexual attitudes prior to college prospectively correlated with an increased likelihood of joining a fraternity (selection effect), and both selection variables indirectly correlated with future sexual aggression via fraternity membership. Third, fraternity membership was associated with increased binge drinking and perceived peer sexual aggression (socialization effects). CONCLUSIONS These findings identify critical targets for the prevention of sexually aggressive behavior that are linked to fraternity membership: Binge drinking and sociosexual attitudes. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

Research seems to focus more on examining predictors of sexual victimization rather than violent experiences predicting coercive sexual behaviors. Little research explores victim to offender associations. The present study expands current literature by exploring transnational differences in which coercive sexual behaviors manifest from childhood violence experiences. Do experiences of violence during childhood impact the use of coercive sexual behaviors? Multilevel modeling regression analysis, used on data from the International Dating Violence Study, reveal several interesting findings: (1) violent socialization from families is associated with coercive sexual behavior, (2) violent socialization from the community is associated with coercive sexual behavior, and (3) nations where violent socialization is more prevalent, the average level of coercive sexual behaviors tends to increase. Identifying predictive processes for sexual coercion is important. Sexual coercion may be represented in subtle day to day interactions that over time instill a sense of violence normality and further perpetuate victimization.

In the theories of communication and information, the way in which many audiovisual products have linked violence to sexual-affective relationships has been analyzed, especially using quantitative methodologies. The way in which such audiovisual products, which are a key socializing agent for teenagers, have an influence on teenagers’ sexual-affective relationships has also been analyzed. However, alternative audiovisual products also exist; such products mostly link attraction to egalitarian and nonviolent relationships. The present study aims at contributing to overcoming the attraction to violence that some audiovisual products might generate, therefore preventing gender violence among teenagers. With this purpose, this article provides a way of analyzing the impact that alternative audiovisual products have on teenagers’ sexual-affective desires using communicative methodology.

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

In this paper we discuss the positions of Christian leaders about "managing" the sexuality of young people, as contextualized by the sexual politics of the state. These reflections are a result of an ethnographic study, conducted through archival work, participant observation, and interviews with 47 religious leaders in Recife. The analysis shows the space of religion as a disciplinary site, operating through transcendent reasoning ("responsibility"). The person is expected to incorporate such reasoning, and thus, make the appropriate differentiations between "right" and "wrong". AIDS and adolescent pregnancy appear as a result of "temptations of the erotic flesh". Through the perspective of human rights and health, the article deconstructs the idea of the "flesh" as dominated by "temptation" and an "essential force", which leads the person to stray/sin/"risk"; resituating sexuality as a positive instance for subjects (of rights), and a condition for social fertility.

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

Although there is a rich literature on parents’ discussion of sexual behavior broadly, little is known regarding how parents communicate to adolescents about pornography and experiences of peer sexual harassment. This knowledge is particularly crucial as parental communication is an important part of adolescents’ sexual socialization. In the current study we sought to investigate adolescents’ perception of parental communication about pornography and sexual harassment, through a mixed methods approach. The current study consisted of recent high school graduates ( N = 247; 78.9% adolescent women, 17.4% adolescent men) currently in their first semester of college ( Mage = 19.16, Modeage = 18). Results suggested that viewing pornography and experiencing sexual harassment was common. However, qualitative content analyses suggest that conversations with caregivers about these topics are not common. When these conversations did occur, the content often reflected heteronormative ideals and sexual double standards. Our findings suggest that parents’ messages may be perpetuating gender norms and stereotypes that minimize the harm of sexual violence (including harassment) as well as promote victim blaming and the sexual double standard. Therefore, parents may be a key target that violence prevention groups should consider focusing on when aiming to reduce harmful gender norms predictive of sexual harassment.

This paper gives details on how Bandura's Social Learning Theory (SLT) describes the persistence of sexual harassment across institutions and generations. It asserts that individuals come to learn, observe, copy and normalize harassment, particularly when such behavior remains unchecked. Utilizing an integrative theoretical review based on systematic literature searches and thematic analysis, the study illustrates how factors like institutional complicity, peer culture, family, and cultural norms facilitate this deviant behavior. Key SLT concepts such as observational learning, vicarious reinforcement, and moral disengagement highlight how harassment becomes an ingrained behavioral script, often perpetuated when perpetrators are not punished or are even rewarded. The concept of reciprocal determinism further clarifies the continuous interplay between personal, behavioral, and environmental factors in sustaining these patterns. The research indicates that learned behavior can be unlearned through positive role models, accountability, and structural interventions. This understanding offers a vehicle for developing more effective education, prevention, and policy interventions to disrupt the social learning chain supporting sexual harassment. While SLT provides a robust framework, the paper acknowledges its limitations in adequately addressing institutionalized power relations and intersectionality.

No abstract available

The surge in premarital sexual incidents among teenagers leading to early marriages, prompted by unintended pregnancies, pervasive dating behavior beyond ethical boundaries, exposure to explicit content, and the prevalence of sexual diseases, underscores the critical need for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education. This study explores the patterns and strategies employed in imparting sexual education and managing reproductive health among students at Yayasan Perguruan Mayjend Sutoyo High School, Sisingamangaraja Street, Medan. Employing qualitative methods, data was gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with students, Biology teachers, the School Principal, parents, and other stakeholders. The findings reveal that sexual education primarily stems from Biology teachers, who employ tactful language to teach human anatomy, reproductive organs, and sexual functions, adhering to contextual norms. Reproductive health education addresses the dynamics and consequences of casual sexual relationships, utilizing age-appropriate teaching materials. Teenagers seek diverse knowledge from parents, school descriptions, and online resources to navigate sexual and reproductive health challenges. However, the discreet provision of sexual education is influenced by traditional cultural values, fostering silence and shame, particularly in discussing male and female genitalia.

No abstract available

This study explores the intricate relationship between gender dynamics and access to reproductive health education among adolescents in urban and rural settings, emphasizing how socio-cultural norms, educational inequalities, and behavioural outcomes intersect to shape adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health awareness. Gender, as a social determinant, significantly influences adolescents’ access to knowledge, attitudes toward reproductive rights, and health-seeking behavior, often resulting in unequal opportunities for learning and empowerment (Jejeebhoy, 2018; Abraham & Kumar, 2020). The research adopts a mixed-method approach integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to evaluate barriers, knowledge gaps, and behavioural outcomes among adolescents aged 13–19 years. Findings indicate that adolescent girls, particularly in rural areas, face greater barriers such as stigma, restricted mobility, and lack of female educators, leading to poor awareness of menstruation, contraception, and consent, whereas boys are often neglected in sexual health education, fostering misinformation and reinforcing patriarchal attitudes (Gupta & Mahajan, 2019; Ramaswamy & Jadhav, 2019). Urban adolescents, though more exposed to digital and institutional sources, are not immune to misinformation and peer pressure, underscoring the inadequacy of current school-based programs (Chakraborty & Banerjee, 2020). The study highlights systemic shortcomings, including insufficient teacher training, policy inconsistency, and societal taboos that perpetuate gender-based disparities in reproductive health literacy (Nanda & Tandon, 2019). The results affirm the urgent need for gender-sensitive, culturally adaptive, and participatory reproductive health education programs that engage both boys and girls, integrate community support, and leverage digital media for broader outreach. The paper concludes that addressing gender dynamics through equitable education and policy reform is crucial for fostering informed, responsible, and empowered adolescents, thereby contributing to sustainable gender equality and improved public health outcomes (UNESCO, 2021; WHO, 2020). 

Teenage pregnancy is one of challenges faced by society today. Consequently, there was a need to establish the utilization of pastoral programs by the church leadership in addressing teenage pregnancy. This study investigated the pastoral role of Church leadership in addressing teenage pregnancy in Tigania Central Sub-County, Meru County. The study used descriptive survey design, and was guided by Social Learning Theory. From a population of 258 Church leaders, 77 selected using random sampling technique, while 50 teenage high school girls were purposively sampled from a population of 500. Data from the Church leaders was collected using structured questionnaires, and Focus Group Discussions was used to collect data from the teenage high school girls. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics like percentages, means, and standard deviations, while the qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Results showed that attitudes towards marital sex (92.4%), cultural values and norms on sexual behavior (81.4%) and perspectives towards contraception utilization (82%) were the causes of high prevalence of teenage pregnancy. The study concluded that pastoral programs by the Church leadership were key in addressing teenage pregnancy among high school girls in Tigania West Sub-County, Kenya. The recommends the Church leadership to appoint youth/teenagers patrons in the Churches, place chaplains in Church-sponsored schools, and include teenagers while drawing pastoral programs.

Sex is a social behavior that requires learning, but its discussion is often shrouded in mystery. Family and friends may provide inconsistent or misleading information about the body and sex. Misconceptions surround pubertal changes and sexual awakenings. Teenagers face challenges in understanding sexual orientations and activities due to restrictive societal norms. Literature may offer a safe space for such explorations. Indian boyhood fiction often sidesteps these issues, but memoirs like those of Krishnagopal Mallick, Bhisham Sahani, and Khushwant Singh candidly address pubescence. This article examines how autobiographical narratives help adolescents navigate emotional turmoil during pubertal changes and emerging sexuality. Relevant excerpts provide insights into emotional complexities beyond biological explanations. These stories offer a relatable and convincing understanding of growing up, aiding teenagers in their journey of self-discovery.

No abstract available

No abstract available

PURPOSE Decades of research have examined the impact of exposure to nonexplicit portrayals of sexual content in media. There is only one meta-analysis on this topic, which suggests that exposure to "sexy media" has little to no effect on sexual behavior. There are a number of limitations to the existing meta-analysis, and the purpose of this updated meta-analysis was to examine associations between exposure to sexual media and users' attitudes and sexual behavior. METHODS A thorough literature search was conducted to find relevant articles. Each study was coded for associations between exposure to sexual media and one of six outcomes including sexual attitudes (permissive attitudes, peer norms, and rape myths) and sexual behaviors (general sexual behavior, age of sexual initiation, and risky sexual behavior). RESULTS Results from 59 studies, involving 394 effect sizes, revealed that exposure to sexual media had a small but significant effect on both sexual attitudes and behaviors; the effect size was comparable to other media effects meta-analyses. Effects were stronger for adolescents than emerging adults. In addition, effects were stronger for boys than girls and for white participants compared with black participants. CONCLUSION This study suggests that exposure to nonexplicit sexual media is associated with both sexual attitudes and behavior, particularly during adolescence. Implications for parents, media producers, and researchers are discussed.

Understanding the dynamics of sexually violent behavior is essential for developing effective interventions and policies that promote safe and respectful sexual relationships. An important area of research in this context is examining the influence of pornography on sexual behavior, which can inform these efforts. This study explores how sexually permissive attitudes and acceptance of the sexual double standard mediate the relationship between pornography consumption and engagement in violent sexual practices among a sample of the general population in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain (N = 1003; 50.7% men). The sexual double standard refers to the societal belief that men and women should be judged differently for the same sexual behaviors, with men often praised or excused for promiscuity, while women face stigma and shame. The findings reveal gender differences in engagement in sexually violent practices during sexual relationships. Men are more likely to perpetrate these behaviors, while women are more likely to experience them. Importantly, both lifetime and last year pornography consumption are associated with an increased involvement in such practices. This relationship is partially mediated by sexually permissive attitudes, with a stronger mediation effect observed in men. Practitioners can leverage these insights to develop comprehensive strategies that mitigate the risks associated with pornography consumption.

No abstract available

Abstract Background Sexuality is a complex aspect of human life, and the perception of sexual normality may vary across genders, religious beliefs, and other aspects. Aim To report preliminary findings of a pilot survey on sexual attitudes, behaviors, and individual perception of sexual normality in a contemporary cross-cultural scenario. Methods A 48-item survey was developed by the Young Researchers Committee (YRC) on behalf of the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) to collect data on cross-cultural perceptions and attitudes toward sexual norms. The survey consisted of questions related to sexual attraction, behavior, identity, orientation, and subjective perception of sexual normality. Data were collected via five translated versions across five countries (Italy, United States, Brazil, Spain, and Japan) and analyzed to investigate how cultural norms, personal experiences, and social expectations shape individuals’ views on sexual normality. Outcomes The primary outcome was to assess gender-based differences in sexual behaviors, satisfaction, religious beliefs’ impact, pornography use, and anatomical perceptions. Results This pilot study included 3423 respondents [63.5% female, 36.2% male; median (IQR) age 39 (30.00, 50.00) years]. Of all, active sexual life was reported by 83.3% participants, with 58.8% expressing satisfaction with their sex life. Heterosexual orientation was predominant (90%), with significant differences in distribution between genders in terms of sexual orientation (P < .001). Religious influence on sexual activity was reported by 18.6% of respondents, more commonly among females (20.2% vs 15.8%, P < .001). Median ages of first sexual intercourse and pornography exposure were 18 (16.00, 19.00) and 14 (12.00, 16.00) years, respectively, with females reporting older ages for both experiences (P < .001). Regarding perceptions of normality, most respondents (55.6%) believed first sexual intercourse typically occurs between 16 and 19 years. The perception of normal erect penile length differed between genders, with men more likely to report greater values (>16.1 cm: 13.1% vs 6.2%, P < .01). Gender differences were also observed in orgasm frequency, with fewer females reporting orgasm during >80% of sexual encounters (38.2% vs 66.5%, P < .001). Clinical Implications Our findings shape the development of sexual education, fostering inclusivity, equity, and sexual health for overall satisfaction. Strengths and Limitations Possible biases associated with different modalities throughout data collections and with different linguistic and cultural weights given the cross-sectional nature of the pilot survey. Conclusion Current preliminary findings from the pilot survey developed by the ISSM YRC start shedding lights on perceptions and attitudes toward sexual norms, and gender differences in sexual behaviors and satisfaction.

No abstract available

No abstract available

ABSTRACT Separate lines of research show that men overestimate the extent of male peers’ sexual activity, and independently, that sexually aggressive men believe that other men approve of coercive behavior. This study examined the intersection of these lines of inquiry, testing whether the degree of male participants’ misperception of other men’s sexual behavior differs as a function of perpetrator status. In a national sample, we presented heterosexually active men (n = 497) with sexual scenarios varying in sexual acts, partner types, and circumstances. Results showed that participants significantly overestimated the typicality of all types of sexual situations for other men. Participants also misjudged the desirability of scenarios consistent with a traditional masculinity sexual script to other men; these scenarios reflected an adversarial perspective on relationships and an impersonal approach to sexuality – a known risk factor for sexual aggression. Further, sexually aggressive men overestimated the desirability of these traditional masculinity scenarios to a greater extent than non-aggressive peers. Findings suggest that interventions that provide accurate knowledge about social norms, or “typical” sexual desires and behaviors among other men, may reduce pressure to live up to perceived but perhaps inaccurate masculine ideals, as well as reduce social norm-related risks for sexually aggressive behavior.

Research on the role of sex-related Internet use in adolescents’ sexual development has often isolated the Internet and online behaviors from other, offline influencing factors in adolescents’ lives, such as processes in the peer domain. The aim of this study was to test an integrative model explaining how receptive (i.e., use of sexually explicit Internet material [SEIM]) and interactive (i.e., use of social networking sites [SNS]) sex-related online behaviors interrelate with perceived peer norms in predicting adolescents’ experience with sexual behavior. Structural equation modeling on longitudinal data from 1,132 Dutch adolescents (Mage T1 = 13.95; range 11-17; 52.7% boys) demonstrated concurrent, direct, and indirect effects between sex-related online behaviors, perceived peer norms, and experience with sexual behavior. SEIM use (among boys) and SNS use (among boys and girls) predicted increases in adolescents’ perceptions of peer approval of sexual behavior and/or in their estimates of the numbers of sexually active peers. These perceptions, in turn, predicted increases in adolescents’ level of experience with sexual behavior at the end of the study. Boys’ SNS use also directly predicted increased levels of experience with sexual behavior. These findings highlight the need for multisystemic research and intervention development to promote adolescents’ sexual health.

Background This study explored the influence of social norms on the access and utilization of sexual and reproductive health services by adolescents. Apart from individual and environmental barriers, social norms influence contraceptive decisions and ultimately sexual and reproductive health outcomes. Social norms that shape group behavior describe acceptable standards of behavior and evoke sanctions when such behavior standards are not adhered to. Sexually active adolescents in Nigeria have a relatively low level of modern contraceptive use being influenced by social norms. Scaling up adolescent reproductive health interventions that integrate normative change for a wider impact of programs remains challenging. Methods Using data from 18 communities, 188 married and unmarried adolescents (F52% and M48%) and 69 (F37%; M63%) reference group participants were purposively sampled and participated in a social norms exploration intervention study conducted through focus group discussion and in-depth interviews between October and November 2019. The Advancing Learning and Innovation on Gender Norms (ALIGN) Social Norms Exploration Tool (SNET) was adapted for the data collection into discussion guides and vignettes. Pilot testing of the tools informed review and validation prior to actual data collection. Findings Low contraceptive uptake by adolescents was characterized by early and forced marriage in childhood; a prominent practice enshrined in social norms around girl-childchastity, family honor, and disapproval of pre-marital sex and pregnancy out of wedlock. Conclusion The understanding of harmful social norms, normative change actors, and potential norm-shifting factors for contraceptive decisions by adolescents is essential for effective adolescent sexual and reproductive health interventions for wider impact and adaptive programming in behavior change interventions for improving the access to and utilization of modern contraceptives by adolescents for improved sexual health outcomes, the attainment of the Family Planning (FP) 2030 commitment and universal health coverage policy.

Sexual consent has received increased attention in mainstream media, educational, and political settings since the rise of the #MeToo movement in 2017. However, long before #MeToo, sexual consent has been a core practice among people who engage in Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, Sadism, and Masochism (BDSM). This study examined sexual consent norms among a sexually diverse sample, including people who practice BDSM (n = 116), people who identify with another sexual minority group, such as swingers and sex workers (n = 114), and people who did not identify with a sexual minority group, termed sexual majority group members (n = 158). Explicit consent for both BDSM- and non-BDSM-related activities was rated as more common (descriptively normative) among people who were a member of the BDSM community compared to majority participants. Further, BDSM participants rated consent discussions as less sexually disruptive compared to majority participants. We found no significant group differences in the extent to which people thought sexual consent should be discussed. We also discuss findings from an open-ended question asking participants to recall a recent sexual experience with a new partner. This study demonstrates variability in consent norms between groups and points to the potential to shift sexual consent behaviors among majority participants.

No abstract available

Normative-based research has found that norms are significant predictors of safe sex behavioral intentions and behavior. Research shows that group identity moderates the relationship between norms and intentions/behavior. The present study used the theory of normative social behavior to evaluate whether identification with characters in an HIV-prevention interactive video moderated the relationship between sexual risk-taking norms and risk reduction intentions/behavior. Participants included 540 men between the ages 18 and 30 enrolled in a randomized controlled trial with a 3-month follow-up. We found support for the hypothesized interaction. At low levels of character identification, the negative relationship between sexual risk-taking norms and risk reduction intentions was strong. However, as character identification increased, the link between norms and intentions became weaker. The mean intentions score of high-risk norm participants was elevated to the level reported by low risk norm participants, demonstrating the favorable effect of character identification on narrative persuasion in entertainment-education. The utility of a social norms approach to health behavior change is discussed in the context of eHealth interventions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).

No abstract available

Abstract The widespread availability of pornography due to the digital shift raises concerns about its impact on adolescents and young adults’ sexual behavior. Based on Social Learning Theory, this study examined the associations among gender, pornography exposure, sexual knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Spanish youth. A sample of 263 adolescents and young adults in Barcelona completed an online questionnaire assessing these variables. Results showed males, those with lower sexual knowledge, younger age of exposure, and frequent viewers of certain content were more likely to replicate behaviors from pornography. The study emphasizes the need for early sexual and digital literacy education.

No abstract available

This article bases its argument on the social representations that justify sexual violence against adolescent girls and women and make it commonplace. It looks at the constructions of masculinity and femininity and their potential effects on the occurrence of sexual violence among adolescent girls. This is a socio-anthropological study carried out in the plateau regions of Togo. The empirical data came from individual semi-directive interviews (55), life stories (4) of adolescent rape victims and group interviews (40) with several stakeholders (adolescents, parents of adolescents, educators, community leaders and religious leaders). The results show that despite the efforts of the State and non-governmental organisations, local sexuality logics often have an impact on the persistence of sexual violence. (.

No abstract available

Several factors contribute to sexual victimization, including cultural practices and gendered expectations. The current study considered one aspect of purity culture, adolescent virginity pacts, and their potential effect on sexual victimization in adolescence and adulthood. Using data from all five waves of the Add Health, longitudinal mixed gender and gender-specific analyses were conducted. The results indicated a gendered association between virginity pacts and sexual victimization. Virginity pacts were associated with lower odds of sexual victimization for women, while men who took a virginity pact had higher odds of sexual victimization compared to their counterparts who did not take a virginity pact. Theoretical explanations and practical implications are presented, highlighting the potential importance of gendered socialization in preventing gender-based violence.

No abstract available

This paper reports on data from interviews conducted with parents of high school-aged teens as part of a study which was aimed at better understanding the gendered dimensions of youth sexting and social media use, and the community responses to it. Here, we outline the findings on parents’ key concerns around digital and social media, their perceptions of the gendered dynamics of youth self-imaging practices, and their attitudes towards sexting and potentially “sexualized” self-images. Echoing other research in this area, parents were not overly concerned about sexting, nor sexual image-sharing or sexual media use among teens. Rather, their key concerns were more generally about the intensities and pressures of constant contact with peers in the digital era. They did, however, articulate key gender differences and socialization processes around youth self-imaging practices. We discuss the gendered cultural “attunements to sexualization” that parents negotiate in relation to social media image-sharing practices and suggest that the perspectives and experiences described can be understood as part of a broader cultural “psychologization”, and often psycho-pathologizing, of youth self-images in digitally networked intimate publics that is particularly intense around the vectors of gender and sexuality.

The sexual harassment of girls and women is a common occurrence that begins in early adolescence and continues into adulthood. Not only is experiencing sexual harassment common, but it is also widely accepted and tolerated. In the current article, we use the bioecological theory of sexual harassment of girls to explain why this may be. Specifically, we discuss that the perpetration and tolerance of sexual harassment is built on a foundation of gendered socialization, media consumption, peer interactions, and permissive school environments that encourages passivity and objectification in girls and aggressiveness and dominance in boys. We outline how this process begins in infancy and continues throughout development, ultimately fostering an environment in which the sexual harassment of girls and women flourishes. Important implications for preventing sexual harassment are also discussed.

This article reviews and integrates research on gender-related biological, cognitive, and social processes that take place in or between family members, resulting in a newly developed gendered family process (GFP) model. The GFP model serves as a guiding framework for research on gender in the family context, calling for the integration of biological, social, and cognitive factors. Biological factors in the model are prenatal, postnatal, and pubertal androgen levels of children and parents, and genetic effects on parent and child gendered behavior. Social factors are family sex composition (i.e., parent sex, sexual orientation, marriage status, sibling sex composition) and parental gender socialization, such as modeling, gender-differentiated parenting, and gender talk. Cognitive factors are implicit and explicit gender-role cognitions of parents and children. Our review and the GFP model confirm that gender is an important organizer of family processes, but also highlight that much is still unclear about the mechanisms underlying gender-related processes within the family context. Therefore, we stress the need for (1) longitudinal studies that take into account the complex bidirectional relationship between parent and child gendered behavior and cognitions, in which within-family comparisons (comparing behavior of parents toward a boy and a girl in the same family) are made instead of between-family comparisons (comparing parenting between all-boy families and all-girl families, or between mixed-gender families and same-gender families), (2) experimental studies on the influence of testosterone on human gender development, (3) studies examining the interplay between biology with gender socialization and gender-role cognitions in humans.

Sexual choking, which is a form of strangulation, can lead to various health consequences, including death. Recent surveys suggest that sexual choking is prevalent among young U.S. adults, a demographic also likely to view pornography. Pornography professionals, social commentators, and scholars have noted that mixed-gender choking is normative in contemporary pornography. Further, the pornographic portrayal of sexual choking is gendered; men choke women more often than women choke men. Guided by the sexual script acquisition, activation, application model (3AM) of mediated sexual socialization, the present campus-representative probability study explored associations between heterosexual-identified women’s pornography exposure and sexual choking behavior. The more frequently women viewed pornography, the more often they were exposed to pornographic depictions of sexual choking. Exposure to sexual choking, in turn, was associated with being choked by men, but not choking men. The link between choking exposure and being choked was mediated by the eroticization of choking (rather than reduced agency to stop rough sex) and became stronger the more women perceived themselves as similar to actors in pornography. These results suggest that women’s experience of sexual choking is influenced by their use of pornography, but in an active and willing, rather than a passive and unwilling, manner.

With the rise in prominence of live-streaming as a cultural production, a form of socialization, and an economic marketplace, this article is concerned with the ways content moderation policies and community guidelines implicitly foster harmful understandings of gender. Looking at Twitch specifically, I demonstrate through discourse analysis of platform policy documents as well as community discourse in relation to a 2018 update to the Twitch Community Guidelines as to how gender is understood, constructed, and ultimately reinforced through dominant ideological frames. I argue that the sexual politics of Twitch (and other streaming sites) resulting in marginalized and hegemonic patriarchal gender relations is a consequence of more than misogynistic culture but is in fact reinforced through the platform and the enacted policies associated with that platform. This results in cultural, social, and economic disadvantages for women online and is reflective of platform moderation’s impact on larger gendered divides across digital media spaces.

PURPOSE The Global Early Adolescent Study (GEAS) was launched in 2014 with the primary goal of understanding the factors in early adolescence that predispose young people to subsequent sexual risks, and conversely, those that promote healthy sexuality across different cultural contexts. The present article describes the methodology that was used for the first phase of GEAS, which consisted of conducting qualitative research to understand the gendered transitions into adolescence and the role that gender norms play within the key relationships of adolescents. Researchers from each of the sites that had completed data collection were also elicited for their feedback on the key strengths, challenges, and lessons learned from conducting research among 11- to 14-year-old adolescents. The purpose of this article is to present the description of each of the methods that were used in GEAS, as well as the researchers' perspectives of using the methods among early adolescents in their sites. METHODS The GEAS is being implemented through a collaboration of university and nongovernmental institutions from 15 cities: Assiut (Egypt) Baltimore (U.S.), Blantyre (Malawi), Cape Town (South Africa), Cochabomba (Bolivia), Cuenca (Ecuador), Edinburgh (Scotland), Ghent (Belgium), Hanoi (Vietnam), Ile-Ife (Nigeria), Kinshasa (DRC), Nairobi (Kenya), New Delhi (India), Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso), and Shanghai (China). Approximately 30 in-depth interviews among adolescents and 30 in-depth interviews with their parent/guardian were conducted at each site, with adults and adolescents interviewed separately. To build trust and increase engagement among the adolescent participants, we used two different visual research methods: (1) timeline exercise which was small group based and (2) the Venn diagram exercise which was conducted individually and used at the start of the in-depth interview. RESULTS The visual aspects of both the timeline and the Venn diagrams not only helped to produce data for the purposes of the study, but also were a successful way of engaging the adolescent participants across sites. While the narrative interviews produced extremely rich data, researchers did notice that there were a few challenges among the younger adolescents. Challenges were related to the length of the interview, comprehension of questions, as some of the questions were either too abstract or asked adolescents about an experience they had not yet had and therefore could not address or articulate. CONCLUSIONS Conducting the first phase of GEAS revealed important insights for research with participants who are in this developmental phase of early adolescence. Methods that involve greater engagement and those that are visual were shown to work well irrespective of the cultural setting.

Power is enacted to oppress others, pursue wellness, or resist oppression. For Black people, societal and relational oppression influences racialized and gendered expressions of power within sexual encounters. The current study analyzed power dynamics within Black university students' first and most recent sexual encounters. Using narrative inquiry within a critical paradigm, five narrative strategies were identified within participants' interviews: 1) Offering a Peek into Powerlessness, 2) Detailing Disempowerment, 3) Privileging Stereotypical Power, 4) Reclaiming Power, and 5) Emphasizing Empowered Sex. Racialized, gendered sexual socialization among Black students is discussed. Counseling considerations to increase sexual wellness for Black people are explored.

OBJECTIVE This study examines the sexual socialization experiences of Asian American emerging adults by assessing the content and frequency of parent and peer sexual communication and their links to sexual experience and reasons for abstinence. METHOD In addition to reports of parent and peer communication on four discourses-abstinence until marriage, gendered sexual roles, acceptance of casual sex, and sex is taboo-154 college students (44% female, M = 19.21 years old) also reported on language use with parents, percentage of best friends who were Asian, and parent rules regarding dating and time spent with friends. RESULTS As expected, peer communication was more frequent and more permissive than parent communication, and women reported receiving far more restrictive messages than did men. Of parent messages, only those portraying sex as taboo was linked to stronger endorsement of abstinence to avoid physical risks, whereas proabstinence messages from friends were linked to endorsing abstinence for family and culture reasons, to avoid physical risks, and because of general discomfort. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that parent rules may be a primary means by which Asian parents are perceived as conveying their attitudes and expectations about sexuality and that same-race best friends serve simultaneously as sexual and cultural socialization agents. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Fraternity culture perpetuates traditional masculinity ideologies, but little research has considered the process by which men internalize these ideologies. Men may select into fraternities based on preexisting ideologies, or fraternities may have a socializing effect on ideologies. We used two longitudinal datasets to explore selection and socialization effects of fraternity membership on masculinity ideologies (gendered beliefs, gendered traits, and sexual double standard beliefs) and impersonal sex (sexual motives and multiple sex partners) among ethnically and racially diverse college men. Using dataset one (n = 166, M = 18.0 years old fall of first year), we explored the selection and socialization effects of fraternity membership on male role norms, masculine traits, and endorsement of the sexual double standard. Men who more strongly endorsed male role norms about status and the sexual double standard were more likely to join fraternities than other men, indicating selection effects. Using dataset two (n = 256, M = 18.5 years old fall of first year), we explored selection and socialization effects of fraternity membership on sex motives and multiple sex partners. We did not find much evidence for selection or socialization effects on sex motives and multiple sex partners. Our findings may inform intervention efforts for men before and during college.

Girls of color experience disproportionately high rates of sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancy, and sexual violence compared to their White peers. Despite these disparities, current sexuality education programs— designed from White, Christian, middle-class, and heterosexual perspectives— largely fail to address the unique socialization experiences that contribute to these inequitable outcomes. This paper applies an intersectional framework to examine how gendered and racialized sexual stereotypes shape the sexual development of girls of color. These stereotypes are learned through media and family socialization, influence girls’ sexual self-concept, and increase vulnerability to discriminatory treatment. Proposed policy reforms include shifting federal funding toward comprehensive programs, mandating culturally inclusive curriculum standards that explicitly address sexual stereotypes, and investing in research to evaluate program effectiveness. This intersectional approach benefits all students by equipping girls of color with tools to resist stereotypes while educating others to recognize and interrupt their perpetuation.

No abstract available

Despite the high prevalence of sexual objectification, the understanding of gender differences in its victimization and perpetration remains limited. We bridged victim and perpetrator perspectives, expecting that objectification victimization positively predicts perpetration, and investigated the mediating role of social dominance orientation (SDO), and gender and perceived social mobility as moderators. Participants (valid N = 530) completed measures of sexual objectification victimization, perceived social mobility, SDO, and sexual objectification perpetration. We found that sexual objectification victimization predicted its perpetration, and that this relationship was stronger among men than women. SDO partially mediated the moderation effect of gender, whereby mediation through SDO was significant among men, but not significant among women. Moreover, a three-way interaction between sexual objectification victimization, gender, and perceived social mobility predicted SDO and carried subsequent implications for sexual objectification perpetration. Despite the mediation effect through SDO not achieving significance among women, it was significantly moderated by perceived social mobility. Specifically, the indirect effect among women with high perceived social mobility was significantly different than that among women with low perceived social mobility, but not significantly different than that among men, whose results were not influenced by perceived social mobility. This study provides a more nuanced understanding of gender in sexual objectification—specifically that gender differences may be related to social power and differences in socialization. The findings offer implications for the development of theories and clinical programs for coping with objectification victimization and preventing perpetration.

No abstract available

Although Black girls use substances at lower rates than boys and girls from various other racial groups, they tend to have worse health outcomes associated with substance use that can also impact their sexual health. The association between substance use and sexual risk behaviors is usually attributed to lack of access to quality health care and lack of culturally specific prevention programming and treatment options tailored to this group. Accordingly, the theoretical frameworks for health promotion for Black girls often focus on addressing deficits, ignoring the powerful and intersecting social forces that can impact identity, agency, and behavioral options. Key among these forces is gendered racism. We propose a strengths-based conceptual framework to address and challenge gendered racism as a critical foundation for promoting health and wellbeing for Black girls. Our approach integrates Intersectionality Theory and Empowerment Theory, with psychological and intrapersonal empowerment identified as critical mediators of behavior and health outcomes, supported by protective factors of positive racial identity and gendered racial socialization. This framework has been developed with and for Black girls but can be adapted for health promotion efforts with other minoritized groups.

Most research on Black girls’ sexuality emphasizes reducing risk behaviors, with less attention to dimensions of healthy and normative sexual development, such as body positivity. To address this gap, we sought to explore the diversity of sexual messaging young Black women received during their formative years. Using consensual qualitative research methods, we explored how 50 Black college women (ages 18–24 years) described their sexual socialization within family contexts in relation to their current sexual beliefs and behaviors. The following themes emerged from the data: messages of discretion, negative messages about physical appearance, messages of deference, messages of abstinence, absence of sexual messages, messages of body positivity, messages of egalitarianism, messages of sex positivity, and messages of sexual distrust and dismissiveness. Black families’ sexual socialization processes were also influenced by ethnicity, social class, and religious orientation. Our findings situate Black women’s family sexual socialization practices within a sociohistorical framework and highlight the need to support Black girls’ healthy sexual development by eliminating fear, shame, or taboo around sexual exploration. Education and advocacy efforts should focus on communicating openly with youth to help them make more positive decisions about sex and bodily autonomy.

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

Sexual health behaviours among young adults are influenced by multiple factors, including digital media exposure, parental communication, and peer influence. The increasing reliance on digital platforms for sexual health information, the role of parental guidance, and the impact of social circles raise important questions about how these factors may shape sexual responsibility, condom use, and risk perception. Despite increased access to sexual health information, many young adults continue to engage in risky sexual behaviours. This study aims to examine the effects of digital media exposure, parental communication, and peer influence on the sexual health behavioural patterns of young adults. A survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted among young adults, utilizing structured questionnaires. A total of 542 participants submitted their responses. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis to determine the impact of these variables on sexual health knowledge and condom use frequency. When it comes to the source of exposure to sexual health information, Digital Media was the most frequent source, with over 90% of respondents reporting at least an occasional exposure.  Parental/Guardian Communication showed lower exposure levels, with 31.4% indicating they were never had sexual health discussion with a parent/guardian. Peer Influence was a significant factor, with 54.9% of respondents reporting that they were often exposed to sexual health discussions from peers. Regression analysis revealed that peer influence had the most substantial effect on sexual health behaviours (β = 0.40, p < 0.001), followed by digital media exposure (β = 0.30, p = 0.001) and parental communication (β = 0.25, p = 0.028). Notably, 40.2% of respondents considered themselves quite aware of sexual health risks, yet a significant 17% reported never using condoms. Further analysis of exposure levels showed that digital media and peer discussions were more influential than parental communication in shaping sexual health decisions. Parental communication strategies should be strengthened to create an open dialogue about sexual health. Public health efforts should focus on leveraging peer influence, promoting digital health literacy, and encouraging family-based discussions to improve responsible sexual health behaviours among young adults.

No abstract available

Adolescence is a phase marked by curiosity and attraction to the opposite sex, which may influence their sexual behavior. According to BKKBN data from 2023, 60% of adolescents aged 16–17 years and 20% aged 14–15 years have engaged in sexual intercourse. A preliminary study at SMAN 1 Blega revealed that among 15 dating students, 4 reported kissing and petting. This study aimed to analyze the influence of parenting patterns, social media, and peer relationships on adolescent sexual behavior at SMAN 1 Blega. Using an analytical cross-sectional approach, the study surveyed 121 out of 158 grade 11 students through simple random sampling. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, Spearman rank, and logistic regression. The findings indicated significant partial influences of authoritarian parenting (p=0.027; R²=0.208), non-risky social media access (p=0.002; R²=0.292), and peer influence (p=0.011; R²=0.256) on adolescent sexual behavior. Recommendations include replicating planned Generation (GenRe) and counseling teachers are advised to activate the Reproductive Health Information and Counseling Centers (PIK-R)programs tailored for adolescents and strengthening parental communication and supervision to mitigate risky sexual behaviors. 

This research focuses on identifying factors that influence risky sexual behavior among college students. Risky sexual behavior refers to sexual activities that can increase the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy. In this context, several factors have been identified as major determinants, including parental socioeconomic status, locus of control, social media use, and peer pressure. The aim of this research is to analyze and understand the influence of several factors on risky sexual behavior among students. This research uses a descriptive survey research design with qualitative research methods. Two hundred forty (240) male and female undergraduate students served as study participants. Data collection was carried out using reliable instruments: The main results of the study are conclusive Primary emphasis should be placed on providing sufficiently informative sex education services to students at universities to equip them with valid facts about safe sexual practices. The implications of this research have a broad impact in both academic and practical contexts, the findings of this research can enrich the academic literature regarding risky sexual behavior, in particular by highlighting the role of factors such as parental socioeconomic status, locus of control, social media use, and pressure. friends of the same age.

This study examines how family communication patterns and peer group dynamics shape adolescents’ and emerging adults’ engagement in Friends with Benefits (FWB) relationships in an urban Indonesian context. Using a qualitative descriptive phenomenological design, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven informants aged 18–24 years, consisting of six female and one male participant from diverse family structures, including intact and broken-home backgrounds. Data were analyzed using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method, informed by Family Communication Patterns Theory and Social Learning Theory. The findings indicate that limited open family communication and strong conformity-oriented expectations restrict discussions of sexuality within the family, positioning peer groups as primary sources of relational norms and sexual meaning-making. Peer interactions normalized FWB relationships through shared narratives and social validation, particularly when parental communication about sexuality was constrained. While some informants framed FWB involvement as autonomy-driven and linked to identity exploration, others engaged in such relationships in response to unmet emotional needs, especially within disrupted family contexts. Family-based sexual education was largely prevention-focused, emphasizing pregnancy avoidance while giving limited attention to emotional and relational dimensions of intimacy. The findings demonstrate that involvement in FWB relationships is shaped by interconnected communicative constraints, emotional vulnerabilities, and peer-based social learning processes rather than individual sexual choice alone. This study contributes to broader debates on family-based sexuality education by clarifying how early family communication patterns influence adolescents’ later sexual decision-making and is relevant beyond Indonesia for collectivist and religious societies with similar communicative constraints.

Background : Sexual socialization is different across cultural contexts due to norms and values including adolescents ’ growth & development and characteristics. Patterns of sexual socialization across different cultural contexts and adolescents in Thailand are still unknown. This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to explain and compare 5 patterns of adolescent sexual socialization in Thailand (SSFA): trust, strict, exhaust, review, and general patterns. Methods : The sample included 1050 parents living in the same house with their adolescent offspring aged 13 e 19 years. Strati fi ed cluster randomized sampling was performed to access participants. The instrument used for measuring adolescent sexualization in families with adolescents was the Sexual Socialization in Families with Adolescents Scale (SSFAS) whose Cronbach ' s alpha coef fi cient was 0.830. Data were analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results : Adolescent sexual socialization within families varied signi fi cantly across adolescent age groups, regions, and parental roles. Differences were observed in patterns such as exhaust, trust, strict, review, and general. Additionally, parents ' perceptions of adolescent sexual risk behaviors varied within the review pattern. However, there were no signi fi cant differences between urban and rural areas across all patterns. Conclusion : Future research on adolescent sexual socialization should include disaggregation between adolescent male and female groups. Effective sexual socialization interventions need to focus on the review pattern to help parents transform their sexual socialization into fl exible and appropriate ways of family life. Other sexual socialization from friends and media needs to be reviewed.

BACKGROUND Despite the extensive research on child sexual abuse and the alarming extent of the phenomenon among peers, certain perspectives are still missing. OBJECTIVE The current study aimed to explore the subjective experience of adult survivors of peer sexual abuse while in boarding school, which has rarely been explored. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING The present study included 15 adults who were sexually abused by their peers while attending boarding school. METHODS The data were based on semi-structured in-depth interviews focused on the abuse story, disclosure, and the meaning of the boarding school context to the participants. The interviews were analyzed using the qualitative thematic analysis approach. RESULTS The findings characterized the boarding school as lacking parental figures, lacking rule and regulation enforcement, and staff who were not able to deal effectively with sexual abuse cases. The relationships within the peer group in the boarding school were characterized by intense, although unspoken, intimacy and sexuality. As part of the group's socialization, breaking the rules was encouraged, including in the sexual realm. Furthermore, the boarding school was perceived as a space that maintained conservative patriarchal social structures that encouraged traditional gender perceptions. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study indicated the urgent need to advance both policy and practice in this area, for example, greater involvement of the boarding school staff in the lives of the adolescents and implementation of rules and regulations to create a safer climate for those who choose, or need, to live away from home.

The study examined peer influence, parenting, socioeconomic status, and social media as predictors of sexual promiscuity among youths in tertiary institutions in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. The study adopted the descriptive survey design of correlational type. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in this study. Data was collected using (Parental Socioeconomic Status Scale α = .89; Parentings and Dimensions Questionnaire α =0.79; Peer Influence α =0.78; Social Network Usage Questionnaire α=.84). Peer influence (r = .264; p<0.05); Parenting (r = .272; p<0.05) and social media (r = .223; p<0.05) had a significant relationship with (sexual promiscuity) but social economic status (r = .023; p<0.05) was not. Social media made the most significant contribution (β = .156; t= 2.572; p<0.05). The study concluded that there is a predictive and positive relationship between peer influence, parenting, social media, and sexual promiscuity among youths in tertiary institutions.

Although teenage pregnancy causes a considerable challenge to young women, studies among sexually active teenagers and the influence of peers on teenage pregnancy are not widely available. This study aims to determine the prevalence of teenage pregnancy and the association between peer pressure and other factors of teenage pregnancy in Dire Dawa secondary school, Eastern Ethiopia. Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 677 identified sexually active students from selected schools. Census was conducted on 2260 teenagers to identify sexually active teenagers using a stage cluster sampling technique. Sexually active teenagers were recruited using a simple random sampling method. Data was entered into EpiData-version 3.1 and exported to STATA version 16 for analysis. Modified passion regression was done to assess the association between of teenage pregnancy and predictor variables and significantly associated at p-value < 0.05. Out of the total sexually active females 135 (19.9%) were pregnant. Teenage pregnancy was higher among teenagers in the 18–19 (APR = 3.21, 95% CI: 2.10–5.18) age group, living with either of their biological parents (APR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.29–2.69) and neither of the biological parents (APR = 2.7 95% CI: 1.39–3.34), teenagers who had sex due to peer pressure (APR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.51–2.86) and not knowing the ovation time in the menstrual cycle (APR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.07–2.28). Teenage pregnancy is lower among teens who have good parent-daughter interaction (APR = 0.6, 95% CI: 0.50–0.91). Nearly one-fifth of the students experienced teenage pregnancy. Teenage pregnancy is higher amongst the age group of 18–19, living with either or neither of the parents, having sex due to peer pressure, not knowing the ovulation time, and lower among teens with good parent-daughter interaction. Teenage pregnancy in Dire Dawa is influenced by a combination of individual, peer, and family-related factors. Addressing these through school-based programs, community involvement, and family-centered interventions is crucial to reducing teenage pregnancy rates.

Background: Adolescents in Uganda face significant sexual health risks, accounting for two-thirds of new HIV infections. While parent-adolescent communication is critical for promoting healthy sexual behaviors, cultural barriers often hinder effective dialogue. This study examines how parental communication styles influence adolescent sexual behavior in Wakiso District, Uganda. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted with 646 adolescents (14-17 years) from 64 villages. Quantitative data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using chi-square tests. Qualitative data from 12 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were thematically analyzed to explore communication experiences. Results: Among participants, 14.9% (n=91) were sexually active, with 61.54% reporting unprotected sex during their last encounter and 49.45% having multiple partners. Parental communication quality significantly predicted sexual behavior: feeling misjudged (χ²=20.18, p<0.001) and sex talk as a source of conflict (χ²=8.22, p=0.016) were strongly associated with risky behaviors. Qualitative findings revealed three key themes: (1) fear of parental punishment suppressing communication ("If you tell Dad, you'll get endless beatings"), (2) peer pressure driving multiple partnerships ("Couples who date are like celebrities"), and (3) generational shifts in sexual norms ("Virginity doesn't matter like before"). Conclusion: Current parent-adolescent sex talk in Uganda is often reactive, judgmental, and initiated too late. Interventions should train parents in motivational interviewing techniques to foster non-judgmental, proactive communication before sexual debut. Community programs must address cultural taboos to improve adolescent sexual health outcomes and support Uganda's SDG targets.

Parents and peers play an important role in adolescents’ body image and embodiment. Messages girls receive about sex and puberty during these formative years can contribute to either positive embodiment or disrupted/disconnected embodiment. To better understand how these messages are constructed in adolescence, we conducted a comparative thematic analysis of self-reported, retrospective accounts of messages conveyed by parents and peers. We administered an online survey using Prolific, which included open-text questions that we analyzed for this study. Participants were 339 cisgender women aged 19 to 29 ( M  = 24.4, SD  = 2.84). Participants identified as Asian/Pacific Islander (23.0%), Black (22.4%), Latina (26.0%), Mixed (3.2%), and White (25.4%). We analyzed the open-text responses using template analysis and constructed five themes: dressing modestly versus dressing for sexual appeal, reinforcement of beauty ideals versus promoting body appreciation, stigmatizing versus normalizing sexual development, emphasizing bodily purity versus bodily autonomy, and parents/peers did not talk about sex. Parental messages emphasized the thin ideal, covering up, body appreciation, and messages about bodily purity. Peers reinforced the curvy ideal, appearance compliments, sexual appeal, and normalized sexuality. Understanding how girls are socialized to think and feel about their bodies during adolescent development is essential for improving body image and sexual health outcomes.

The phenomenon of premarital sexual behavior in Indonesia is increasingly prevalent among adolescents, including in the city of Baubau. One of the reasons is the easy access to pornography on social media. Therefore, the role of parents is needed in supervising and guiding adolescents. This study aimed to determine the role of social media and parents' interpersonal communication with premarital sexual behavior in adolescents in Baubau city. This study used a qualitative research method with a case study approach. Informants were selected by purposive sampling and snowball sampling, totaling 8 teenagers (5 male teenagers and 3 female teenagers) as a key informants. The results of this study show that both male and female adolescents admit that their sexual behavior is inspired or learned through the pornography they watch. However, exposure to pornography through social media is more dominant in contributing to the sexual behavior of female adolescents than male adolescents, because male adolescents prefer to watch pornography through online websites. Interpersonal communication generally went well, where there was empathy, support, and equality. However, the aspect of openness between adolescents and parents regarding sexuality issues does not seem to be fully explored. On the other hand, the positive attitude of parents who give too much freedom to children actually makes adolescents fall into bad sexual behavior. Other factors that influence premarital sexual behavior in adolescents are knowledge, attitudes, peers and level of religiosity. The conclusion in this study is that social media and parental interpersonal communication have a role in premarital sexual behavior in adolescents.

No abstract available

Over the past few decades, the increasing divorce rate has been one of the most prominent behavioral changes influencing Chinese families and the nurturing and socialization of children. Research has found that parental divorce exerts only a limited negative impact on children's socioeconomic achievement in China relative to that in Western societies. However, few studies have explored the long-term consequences of parental divorce on children's demographic outcomes in China. Therefore, how parental divorce influences the timing of offspring's first sexual intercourse and marriage, as well as its impact on their sexual and marital well-being, were investigated in this study. Based on findings obtained using data from the Chinese Private Life Survey, children from divorced families were more likely to initiate sexual intercourse at younger ages than those from intact families, although the two groups entered their first marriage at similar ages. Regarding sexual and marital well-being, married men and women who experienced parental divorce during childhood were less satisfied with their current marriage and marital sex and exhibited a higher level of divorce proneness and more sexual dysfunction symptoms than those from intact families. The effect of parental divorce on marital well-being was also largely mediated by the onset of sexual intercourse at a younger age. Having more years of premarital sexual experience was associated with lower sexual satisfaction, more sexual dysfunction symptoms, and more liberal sexual attitudes and behaviors. The worsening of sexual life also further undermined marital well-being.

Abstract Previous studies have established that individual characteristics such as violent behavior, substance use, and high-risk sexual behavior, as well as negative relationships with parents and friends, are all risk factors for intimate partner violence (IPV). In this longitudinal prospective study, we investigated whether violent behavior, substance use, and high-risk sexual behavior in early adulthood (ages 22–23 years) mediated the link between family conflict and coercive relationship talk with friends in adolescence (ages 16–17 years) and dyadic IPV in adulthood (ages 28–30 years). A total of 998 individuals participated in multimethod assessments, including observations of interactions with parents and friends. Data from multiple reporters were used for variables of interest including court records, parental and self-reports of violence, self-reports of high-sexual-risk behaviors and substance use, and self- and romantic partner-reports of IPV. Longitudinal mediation analyses showed that violent behavior during early adulthood mediated the link between coercive relationship talk with friends in adolescence and dyadic IPV in adulthood. No other mediation paths were found and there was no evidence of gender differences. Results are discussed with attention to the interpersonal socialization processes by which IPV emerges relative to individual risk factors.

No abstract available

This paper discusses the topic of first sexual intercourse in adolescence focusing on the course of ten young girls with experience of induced abortion living in a favela in Rio de Janeiro. The analysis uses the description of the process of entry into sexuality as a strategy to elucidate the context of pregnancy and the first clandestine abortion in the affective-sexual path of girls interviewed. The first sexual intercourse is a realm of sexuality and social life involving socialization, interpretation of rules and meanings, system of attitudes, ways of approximation, control and modeling of affections, emotions and gender relationships. The results showed that the age difference between couples in sexual initiation is significant, clarifying the context in which decisions on contraceptive methods, pregnancy and abortion were held. We noted that adolescents subject to difficult decisions about their sexuality and reproduction at a time of life where they still lack sexual and reproductive experience. The data collected show the importance of strengthening of public policies, discussions on gender and adolescent sexual and reproductive rights in many spheres of society, such as schools, family and other institutions.

No abstract available

Abstract The social and sexual interactions of adolescents and young people were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing challenges in addressing prevention and sexual education in schools. This article addresses the socialization of sexuality during the COVID-19 pandemic, based on two studies with young people aged 16-19, High School students from suburban areas in São Paulo. A mixed-methods approach was adopted: a) Observation of interactions among young people and collaborative activities in school settings; b) A questionnaire self-administered before the pandemic (2019) and after schools reopened (2022); and c) 40 individual in-depth interviews (2022). The school environment is a setting for experimentation and learning about gender and sexuality, capable of embracing the reinforcement of cisheteronormativity and the expression of gender and sexual non-binary identities. The pandemic has escalated the domestication of sexuality, functioning as a preventive strategy and an adaptation to the pandemic context. Harassment and consent in affective-sexual relationships are topics of significant interest to young people and should be central to intervention and prevention programs targeting this population.

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

Technology has completely revolutionized the way people live, work, study, and connect daily in the current world. The fast growth of the technological world has resulted in a greater requirement for theory and practice to successfully utilize the collaborative online arenas. However, there has been widespread sexual exploitation perpetrated by sophisticated organized criminal syndicates, a profitable sex business, and sexting due to frequent interaction with these online arenas. The word “sexting” is used to refer to the practice of receiving and transmitting sexually explicit images through various virtual communications, particularly in most internet environments. Although sexting is not limited to teenagers, their involvement and the impact on their lives have prompted significant concern among parents, schools, and the media. As a result, this article will examine the tiny but growing area of qualitative research on sexting to determine sexting’s impact on people’s well-being. Building on this, the primary goal of this report was to broaden the understanding of why a person engages in sexting by analyzing the theorized behavioral and cognitive mechanisms depicted by social learning theory and social opportunity structure devised to expand this existing, one-dimensional theoretical framework. The results of this study show that many individuals in online communities see sexting as “fun” and “amusing.” Besides, for adolescents unwilling to engage in actual sexual escapades, sexting may play an integral role in the sexual exploration period. Negative consequences for one’s well-being, such as reputational harm, are also addressed. Furthermore, according to the findings, scholars must continue to employ innovative, interactive techniques with the young generation to investigate the impacts of this sophisticated communication type.

This study’s purpose was to assess the influence of social media on risky sexual behaviours among undergraduate students of main campuses in Nakuru County. Social Learning Theory by Albert Bandura and Person-Centred Theory by Carl Rogers guided the study. The study was carried out among 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th year undergraduate students from main campuses in Nakuru County. The study adopted a correlational research design. The target population was 18570 undergraduate students. The accessible population was 8456 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th year undergraduate students whose sample was 367. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. The study included a sample of 10 peer counsellors and 2 student counsellors from the Egerton University and Kabarak University main campuses who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected between November and December 2019 and obtained using questionnaire for undergraduate students, focus group discussions guide for peer counsellors and an interview schedule for student counsellors. Validation of research instruments was done through peer and expert review and also through pilot testing which was done in Mount Kenya University (MKU) - Nakuru Campus. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse quantitative data using SPSS Version 25 whereas the qualitative data was analysed thematically. The analysed data was presented in tables, graphs, and narratives. The researcher considered the ethics of confidentiality and informed consent. The findings indicated that the majority of students perceive that it is not ok to watch pornography, send or receive sex messages to or from friends on social media. There is also sufficient evidence to conclude that the majority of students perceive that it is not their hobby to enjoy cybersex and do not perceive that online dating is the best way to get sexual partner.

The Comarca Ngäbe-Buglé (CNB), home to >200,000 Indigenous people, is one of the poorest regions in Panama. We describe transactional sex (TS) behaviours, normative beliefs and factors associated with TS among Indigenous adolescents(14-19years) in the CNB. We conducted a mixed-methods study in the CNB between January and November 2018, which included a qualitative study with participant observation and semi-structured interviews that focused on descriptive norms related to TS; and a cross-sectional study among public-school-going adolescents using self-administered questionnaire to report sexual behaviour and injunctive norms related to TS. Participants in the epidemiological study were also asked to submit samples for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea testing. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to organise and analyse field notes and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analysis included four models: TS experience and acceptance of a TS offer and the associations of these outcome variables with demographic and behavioural variables and HIV/STI infections. In the qualitative study among 20 adolescents, we found that people offering TS were reported to be from within and outside of the community, and included older men and women, and disturbingly, teachers. Participants reported feeling individual and collective agency in the decision to engage in TS and described little social sanctions for participation. In the quantitative study among 700 adolescents(309 girls[45.1%],379 boys[54.9%]), we found that girls(18.8%;58/309) and boys(15.5%;58/379) reported similar levels of having been offered TS, and of acceptance among those offered(girls 81.4% [35/43]; boys 77.8% [35/45]). TS was found to be associated with the reported forced sex and HIV/syphilis seropositivity. Due to widespread acceptance and feelings of agency, interventions would not be effective if they focused on eliminating the transactional component of sexual encounters. Instead, interventions should focus on individual and household economic stability, increasing violence reporting, bringing perpetrators to justice, and adopting condom use during all sexual encounters.

No abstract available

ABSTRACT High levels of adolescent pregnancy and child marriage rates in low- and middle-income countries is an issue of concern to many stakeholders, including in Zambia where almost one-third of women give birth before age 18. The aim of this paper is to explore and analyse social norms concerning adolescents’ sexual behaviour within the context of an intervention trial in rural communities in southern Zambia. It is based on a qualitative study applying individual interviews, focus group discussions and participatory research methods. We apply the distinction between injunctive and descriptive norms to demonstrate that adolescent girls are caught between conflicting norms. Injunctive norms express that premarital sex, contraceptive use, and discussions about sex between adults and youths are socially condemned. At the same time poor girls are reported to feel pressure towards having sexual relations for the economic benefits such relations can bring, and this practice is considered so common that it amounts to a descriptive norm. Norms and structural conditions combine to create a disabling and disempowering environment for adolescent sexual and reproductive health, which limits girls’ agency and exposes them to unwanted pregnancies.

Purpose This study investigates the relationship between adolescent girls' agency and social norms regarding early marriage, girls' education, and nutrition in West Hararghe, Ethiopia. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study involving adolescent girls aged between 13 and 17 years in 2016. A two-stage cluster sampling procedure was followed to identify eligible respondents at the household level. A total of 114 clusters in four districts and 30 households from each cluster were randomly selected. Data were collected using a structured and pretested questionnaire. The agency composite score was measured based on 21 previously validated items. Descriptive and injunctive norm composite scores regarding education, marriage, and nutrition were constructed based on context-relevant items. The weighted mean and standard errors were calculated for the agency and social norms composite scores. The relationship between girls' agency and descriptive and injunctive norms were examined using a multivariable linear regression model that accounted for a complex sample survey design. Results A total of 3,186 adolescent girls participated in this study. The multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that adolescent girls' agency score significantly and favorably associated with education (β = .19, p < .001), marriage (β = .13, p < .01), and nutrition (β = .20, p < .01) descriptive norms after adjusting for individual and household characteristics. Similarly, adolescent girls' agency was significantly and favorably associated with marriage (β = .21, p < .001) injunctive norms; however, positive injunctive norms around education (β = .09, p > .05) and nutrition (β = .12, p > .05) did not have a statistically significant association with girls' agency. The domains of agency scale related to the belief in women's health rights related to contraception use and the belief in women's right to refuse sex showed poor prosocial views. Conclusions Favorable descriptive and injunctive norms around marriage were significantly associated with greater adolescent girls' agency, which indicates the need to incorporate interventions that address social norms in efforts aimed to enhance adolescent girls' sexual and reproductive health status. Furthermore, attention should be given to monitor which domain of agency is improved by the interventions.

No abstract available

The current study examined the relations between observed normativity and deviance during adolescents’ and young adults’ conversations about sex with their friends and their individual perceptions of sexual peer norms. Participants were 16–21-year-old same-sex friendship dyads (31 male and 30 female dyads) who performed a peer interaction task that consisted of five discussion assignments focusing on party planning, sexual double standards, condom use, homosexuality, and consensual sex. Videotaped discussions were coded to capture the amounts of normative talk (e.g., consistent with notions of healthy sexuality) and deviant talk (e.g., consistent with notions of risky sexuality), and the verbal or nonverbal reinforcement thereof. Participants also completed individual questionnaires to assess their perceived sexual descriptive norms, injunctive norms, pressure, and risk norms among their peers. Actor–partner interdependence model (APIM) results revealed that youths’ perceived descriptive, injunctive, and risk norms, but not their experienced peer pressure, were related to both their own (actor effects) and their friends’ (partner effects) normativity and deviance. Overall, more deviance was related to perceiving friends to be more sexually active, more approving of having sex, and engaging in more risky sex, whereas more normativity was related to these perceptions in the opposite direction. Gender differences in the APIMs indicated that interactive normativity and deviance was related to perceived descriptive, injunctive, and risk norms for boys, but only to perceived injunctive norms for girls. These findings demonstrate the importance of assessing the dyadic nature of youths’ sexual communication with friends, their relation to individual sexual peer norm perceptions, and gender differences therein.

Background Child marriage remains prevalent in the Sahel region. Pervasive norms regarding child marriage, and sexual behavior persist. We explored norms from multiple perspectives to strengthen interventions aimed at delaying age at marriage. Methods This study analyzed a cross-sectional household survey conducted in Niger in 2022 with women aged 15–49 (n = 2,726) and a subset of their male household members aged 15–59 (n = 1,136). Separate logistic regression models assessed factors associated with three descriptive (e.g., perception of what others do) and injunctive (e.g., perception of a group’s approval or disapproval) normative outcomes related to practices that support marriage as soon as a girl reaches puberty and beliefs related to premarital sex. Results Our study found a greater proportion of men described early marriage as protective from the fear of socially induced ruined marital prospects for women (70% vs. 64%), while women expressed its protection from being harassed (62% compared to 42%). The injunctive norm outcome that “my neighbors think that one should marry off one’s daughter as soon as she reaches puberty” was significantly associated with the belief that child marriage was protective for females among women (OR = 4.49; 95% CI 3.13. 5.50) and men (OR = 8.21; 95% CI 5.88, 11.45). Conclusions Programs addressing child marriage should consider both male and female perspectives to address differences and foster an environment where communities and families shift norms to delay early marriage.

Research calls for the sexual and reproductive rights field to prioritize gender norms to ensure that women can act on their reproductive rights. However, there is a gap in accepted measures. We addressed this by including important theoretical components of gender norms: differentiating between descriptive and injunctive norms and adding a referent group. Our team originally developed and validated the G-NORM, a gender norms scale, in India. In this paper, we describe how we subsequently adapted and validated it in Nepal. We administered items to women of reproductive age, conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and examined associations between the subscales and reproductive health outcomes. Like the original G-NORM, our factor analyses showed that descriptive norms and injunctive norms comprise two distinct scales which fit the data well and had Cronbach alphas of 0.92 and 0.89. More equitable descriptive gender norms were associated with higher decision-making scores, increased odds of intending to use family planning, disagreeing that it is wrong to use family planning, and older ideal age at marriage. Injunctive gender norms were only associated with disagreeing that it is wrong to use family planning. Findings offer an improved measure of gender norms in Nepal and provide evidence that gender norms are critical for agency and reproductive health outcomes.

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

ABSTRACT Based on the theory of normative social behavior, this research investigated the moderating role of three forms of sexual stigma – enacted, felt, and internalized – in the relationship between perceived descriptive norms and intentions of gay and bisexual men to engage in three preventive behaviors during the 2022 mpox outbreak in the U.S. Through an online survey conducted among 439 gay and bisexual men in September 2022, we observed that participants’ perceived descriptive norms regarding mpox preventive behaviors among gay and bisexual male friends and among gay and bisexual men in general were both positively related to their intentions to adopt the recommended mpox preventive behaviors. However, these norm-intention associations were moderated by sexual stigma. Specifically, the positive associations between friend descriptive norms and intentions were significant only when participants held low internalized sexual stigma. Except for the behavior of practicing hand hygiene, the positive associations between general descriptive norms and intentions were significant only when participants held low felt sexual stigma. Enacted sexual stigma did not interact with either perceived descriptive norms among friends or those among gay or bisexual men in general. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed in the end.

No abstract available

No abstract available

  The topic of adolescent sexual education has been of longstanding concern to health communication scholars, as have mediated sexual socialization processes and effects. Yet few investigations have explored how sexual media use affects adults’ attitudes toward adolescent sex education, despite the vital role of public opinion in the policy making process and continued evidence of sexual media’s widespread popularity. The present paper presents a replication of a seminal study in this area in the context of a pornography measurement experiment. The replicative component compares results from the original and contemporary data using the same pornography consumption measure. The experimental component compares results in the contemporary data generated by two differing pornography consumption measures. Data are from an ongoing national probability survey of U.S. adults. Results supported the replicability of the original findings suggesting that pornography consumption indirectly affects U.S. adults’ support for sex education in public schools through increased acceptance of adolescents’ sexual behavior, but this mechanistic process is more likely for the less religious and less likely for the more religious. Implications for the sexual script acquisition, activation, application model’s (3AM) morality clause and abstract scripting postulate, pornography consumption measurement, replication science, and socially polarizing research topics are discussed.

No abstract available

Individuals’ gender development is influenced by the characteristics of personal and contextual environments. However, the role of sibling contexts in shaping gender norms has rarely been studied among Chinese youth at early adolescence as most of them were the only child. The aim of this paper is to compare perceived gender norms among adolescents aged 10–14 with different sibling configurations, to help inform and tailor guidance for sexual and reproductive health education in the future. We used the Global Early Adolescent Study baseline data collected from Shanghai, China. The sample for analysis was 1615 students. We used univariate analysis and multivariate ordinal logistic regression to compare perceived gender-stereotyped traits and gender role attitudes, stratified by age and sex. The results showed that sibling context was more influential for boys than girls at early adolescence in their gender socialization process. Among boys those who were with mixed-sex siblings scored higher on gender-stereotyped traits (ORonly-child vs. mixed-sex siblings = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48–0.94, p = 0.019; ORsame-sex siblings vs. mixed-sex siblings = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.37–0.96, p = 0.033). Younger early adolescents aged 10–12 who were the only child or who had mixed-sex siblings perceived more traditional gender role attitudes than those living with same-sex siblings (ORonly-child vs. same-sex siblings = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.06–2.75, p = 0.028; ORmixed-sex siblings vs. same-sex siblings = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.03–2.94, p = 0.037). Comprehensive sexuality education with gender and power components being well addressed, both in and out of the family, is needed to provide extra gender-inclusive and gender-egalitarian environments for youth.

Abstract Objectives The mothers–adolescent discussion regarding sexual and reproductive health (SHR) issues plays an important role in preventing negative outcome associated with sexual risk behaviors. The present study aimed to explore the relationship between mothers’ competence and comfort in SHR discourse with adolescent girls and its related factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 160 mothers from July to September 2020. Data were collected through questionnaires covering demographic characteristics, Mother’s Comfort in Sexual Discourse (MCSD), Mother’s Interest in Sexual Discourse (MISD), and Parenting Sense of Competence (PSOC). The collected data were analyzed using simple and multiple linear regression models. Results The mean scores for MCSD, MISD, and PSOC were 45.49±16.15 (13–78), 7.9±4.2 (0–13), and 64.07±9.44 (45–94), respectively. The primary topics of mother–adolescent discourse on SRH were menstruation (5.61±0.98) and the delivery process (4.55±1.57). The mean age for “sex talks” and age-appropriate “sex talks” with daughters was 11.76±1.85 (range: 6–15) and 17.05±1.86 (range: 14–23) years, respectively. Significant associations were found between MCSD and MISD (β=0.482, p<0.0001), PSOC (β=0.223, p<0.005), self-efficacy (β=0.202, p<0.011), mother’s job (β=0.185, p<0.019), mother’s education (β=0.173, p<0.029), and father’s age (β=0.161, p<0.042). After adjusting for other variables, major influencing factors on MCSD included MISD (β=0.487, p<0.0001), self-efficacy (β=0.143, p<0.039), satisfaction (β=0.169, p<0.015), daughter number (β=−0.235, p<0.014), son number (β=−0.219, p<0.024), birth rank (β=0.263, p<0.008), and residency (β=0.172, p<0.014). Conclusions MISD, PSOC, and certain demographic characteristics emerge as significant factors influencing MCSD in mother–daughter sexual discourse. As such, it is imperative to consider these determinants when devising strategies to maintain and enhance the sexual health of teenage girls.

Introduction The process of parental sexual communication has been shown to delay the sexual debut of adolescents; however, few studies have focused on extended family members such as grandparents. The purpose of this study was to compare the process and content of sexual communications among African-American adolescent children living in parent or grandparent headed families. Methods A secondary analysis of two de-identified datasets from 80 African-American adolescents was conducted. Results Findings indicated that there were no significant differences in the sexual communication process in relation to facilitators p= 0.38 and barriers p =0.23 with the discussions. There were however significant differences with adolescents’ attitudes (p = 0.04) and feelings regarding sexual abstinence (p =0.01), HIV prevention (p= 0.002) and teen pregnancy (p= 0.010). Discussion Researchers can use the results of this study as a beginning point in examining the sexual communication process in grandparent-headed families.

In this paper, we explore the gender socialization of adolescent boys in soccer clubs, and ask whether there are opportunities for integrating gender transformative elements into that socialization. This qualitative study involved 11 in-depth interviews and informal conversations with male soccer coaches from Gugulethu township and Mthatha town in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, respectively. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. We found that the coaches felt that the adolescent boys in their soccer clubs faced serious social and emotional challenges, with the boys’ poor socio-economic backgrounds and fragmented family structures being major contributors to these challenges. Most coaches also gave themselves the responsibility to try to address some of the challenges faced by their club members. To do this, they employed specific strategies, including creating an alliance with parents and professionals. In the process, the coaches engaged the boys on topics around respect, sexual and reproductive health, and avoiding alcohol, drugs, and involvement in criminal gangs. Some coaches also played a social fathering role to club members as a way of helping them to think differently about their lives, redirect risky practices, and reduce the chance for poor health outcomes. These findings highlight the role of soccer clubs and coaches as potential avenues for health- and equity-promoting gender socialization of adolescent boys.

ABSTRACT Sexual role preference or self-label (i.e., top, versatile, or bottom) has been well studied in samples of sexual minority men (SMM) but lacks research among adolescent sexual minority men (ASMM). In response, data were collected from 302 ASMM (15–18 years old), measuring sexual self-label, relationship and sexual experience, sexually explicit media use, use of geosocial networking applications, penis size satisfaction, and gender atypicality. Results showed there was no significant difference in the distribution of sexual position self-identity in ASMM when compared with data from published, adult samples. A model that associated sexual socialization factors with adopting any self-label was significant, with greater number of partners, previous geosocial networking app use, and more relationship experience being positive predictors of having a label. Additionally, a model that tested the convergent validity between self-label and enacted sexual behaviors was significant. Both receptive and insertive sex enactments were highly correlated with corresponding labels. Lastly, gender atypicality and penis size satisfaction were significant predictors of sexual position self-identity. Data from our study supports sexual self-labeling occurring before adulthood, during adolescence for SMM. Furthermore, it shows that socialization factors (e.g., partner frequency, using apps) are important in the development of sexual position self-identity in this population.

ABSTRACT Sexual scripts in pornography rarely include condoms. Many teenagers in the U.S. are exposed to pornography and have unprotected sex. Despite this, only a few studies have investigated whether greater pornography exposure is associated with condomless sex among U.S. teenagers, and these were conducted using clinical, convenience samples, many years ago, with data collections at a single location. This paper reports contemporary results on U.S. teenagers’ exposure to pornography, parent-adolescent sexual health communication, and condom use from the National Survey of Porn Use, Relationships, and Sexual Socialization (NSPRSS), a U.S. population-based probability study. Although the correlations were in the expected direction, neither pornography exposure nor parent-adolescent sexual health communication were related at the bivariate level to teenagers’ use of condoms. However, consistent with the sexual script acquisition, activation, application model (3AM) of sexual media socialization, pornography exposure interacted with parent-adolescent sexual health communication to predict condomless sex. Pornography exposure was associated with an increased probability of condomless sex only when parents engaged in little to no sexual health communication with their children. When parent-adolescent sexual health communication was high, pornography use was unrelated to teenagers’ engagement in condomless sex. These results are consistent with the public health position that pornography can be a risk factor for condomless sex, the theoretical position that the socializing impact of sexual media depends on consumers’ existing sexual scripts, and the pedagogical position that parent-adolescent sexual health communication can buffer youth against detrimental effects of sexual media.

ABSTRACT Adolescent sexual development is informed by individual, relational, generational, institutional, and cultural perspectives. Families matter: they are the social institution at the intersection of adolescent development and broader social systems, charged with the responsibility for rearing children and adolescents to adulthood. This narrative review maps insights from family theory and research onto adolescent sexual development research. Our purpose is to inform sexuality researchers from diverse fields about how family perspectives can enrich understanding of adolescent sexual development. We present the critical, intersectional theoretical framework guiding this review as consisting of three meta-themes for understanding families through an examination of family structure, process, and context. Then, we apply those meta-themes to current research on adolescent sexual development by selectively organizing our review around the contexts of family structural diversity and family relational complexity, demonstrating that both the structure and the process components are embedded within the intersectional and cultural contexts that shape and are shaped by families. Our review demonstrates that diverse, intersectional family structures and transitions may affect adolescent sexual development by influencing family processes, particularly around sexual communication. We conclude with implications of using family perspectives for future inquiry related to adolescent sexual development.

No abstract available

Abstract The present study used longitudinal person-centered analyses to understand how parent religiosity, parenting styles, and parent-adolescent sex communication interact in predicting adolescent sexual risk-taking over time. The sample included 681 adolescents and their parents (Mage = 15, at wave 5) from Waves 5 and 6 of the Flourishing Families Project. Variables capturing parent religiosity, parenting styles, and parent-adolescent sex communication were used as class indicators in a latent profile analysis. Three classes emerged: (1) Non-religious Authoritative families, (2) Religious Authoritarian families, and (3) Religious Authoritative families. The Non-religious Authoritative and Religious Authoritarian families did not significantly differ on later adolescent sexual risk-taking (controlling for prior sexual risk-taking), while the Religious Authoritative families had adolescents with significantly lower subsequent sexual risk-taking. These results demonstrate the complex ways in which religion, parenting, and sex communication interact in predicting adolescent sexual risk-taking. Thus, both the content and process of sexual socialization may be important.

PURPOSE Adolescence is a key stage for forming knowledge and attitudes about sex and reproduction that may have long-term implications for adult sexual behaviors. Gender differences in experiences and socialization processes may affect the links between adolescent characteristics and adult behaviors. METHODS By following adolescent virgins aged 15 years and older from wave I through wave IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (n = 4,152), we test whether adolescent boys' and girls' knowledge about, and attitudes toward, sex and reproduction influence the number of lifetime different-sex sexual partners and the likelihood of having concurrent sexual partners in adulthood, using negative binomial regression and logistic regression, respectively. Models are run separately by gender. RESULTS Men and women who reported greater physical benefits of sex as adolescents reported more lifetime different-sex sexual partners and were more likely to have concurrent sexual partners in adulthood. For women, adolescent perceptions of more social costs to sex were linked to fewer lifetime sexual partners, whereas greater birth control confidence was linked to more sexual partners. Women who more strongly felt that avoiding sexually transmitted infections was a hassle during adolescence were less likely to have concurrent sexual partners as adults, and men who were more knowledgeable about condoms during adolescence were more likely to have concurrent sexual partners. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent knowledge and attitudes about sex, contraception, and reproduction have implications for adult sexual behavior, but different aspects emerge as salient for men and women.

No abstract available

In the recent report The Impact of Influencers on Advertising and Consumer Protection in the Single Market the European Parliament mentions the use of nudity and sexual content and the role of perceptions and expectations towards body image and perfect images. What most moves consumers' attitudes and behavioral intentions is the credibility, attractiveness (both physical and in terms of familiarity and likability), expertise, trustworthiness, popularity, prestige and high power of the influencers. In Spain two White Papers on influencer marketing indicate that a common form of socialization, especially for girls and women, consists of showing a sexy or a perfect body and projecting an egocentric image. The aim of this research is to analyze the presence of self-objectification in top influencers in Spain and to identify its relationship with either social values of success and recognition or stereotypes. The methodology carried out has been a content analysis of 246 images of the first 14 top influencers that appear in the Report of the 500 most influential men and women influencers in Spain in 2022. From a previous literature review, the analysis has been conducted with a deductive-inductive research paradigm through coding with QSR Nvivo the following categories of self-objectification: (1) sexy self-presentation; (2) appearance-centered attitude towards one's own perfect body - egocentric image; (3) stereotypical gender representation; and (4) success, social recognition, or popularity. The results show that self-objectification is more predominant in women than in men, and that it has an important correspondence with the self-perception of the professions they have as well as with age, being mainly belonging to the Z Generation. Both women and men who self-perceive themselves as having professions in which physical appearance is relevant (models or actors) tend to objectify themselves more. However, success and social recognition are more evident in those male influencers who emphasize their professional facet and do not resort to self-sexualization of their bodies (businessmen, advertisers or youtubers).

Recent systematic reviews have highlighted the role of certain attitudes in shaping the social perception of sexual violence. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of sexism, gender-role expectations, and rape myth acceptance on the social perception of sexual violence. It also aims to determine whether attitudinal dimensions, participant gender, or the dyadic composition of sexual violence incidents moderate this relationship. A literature search covered published and unpublished manuscripts from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2023, across PsychArticles, Proquest, and Google Scholar. Manuscripts had to measure at least one attitude and assess participants' perception of material depicting sexual violence between two adults. Data from 40 studies from 10 different countries, involving 12,283 participants, revealed a significant association between attitudes and the social perception of sexual violence (r = .425, p < .001). Meta-regression highlighted the significant contributions of greater gender role expectations, hostile sexism, benevolent sexism, and rape myth acceptance to the social perception of sexual violence incidences. Their combined effect correlated with increased victim blame (r = .558), reduced victim credibility (r = -.492), decreased perception of incident severity (r = -.363) and victim trauma (r = -.390), heightened perceptions of victim pleasure (r = .417), as well as reduced perpetrator blame (r = -.288) and sanction severity (r = -.191). These tendencies were even more pronounced in cases involving same-gender perpetrators and victims. Participant gender was not a significant moderator. These findings underscore the need for prevention efforts to address broader gender biases and power dynamics.

Japanese and Canadian laws regarding sexual assault vary in the degree to which they incorporate the concept of sexual consent, with Japanese law being less consent-oriented than Canadian law. Although the Japanese law has incorporated the concept of sexual consent in the 2023 amendment, the public understanding of the concept is still limited. Reflecting such difference, it could be expected that the general public in both countries also differ in their perceptions and attitudes regarding punishment of sexual crime and sexual consent. The present study aimed to test these expectations and further examine the mediational mechanism that explains the national difference between Japan and Canada. The data from 1125 Japanese and 1125 Canadian respondents showed that Japanese respondents were less likely to perceive the imposition of punishment on an alleged perpetrator described in scenarios as appropriate. In contrast, the difference in the perceived victim’s consent was significant only in three out of seven scenarios. The relation between nations (Japan vs. Canada) and perceived appropriateness of punishment was mediated by the perceived victim’s consent.

This paper explores the societal attitudes towards sexual violence and rape as depicted in Manjula Padmanabhan’s play Lights Out (2020). It delves into how the play critiques the male-dominated societal structures that normalize and perpetuate rape culture. Focusing on themes of casual attribution towards rape victims, the paper investigates how society’s dismissive and prejudiced attitudes towards survivors contribute to victim-blaming. Through a critical analysis, this paper explores the male proclivity for rape, the objectification of women, and the voyeuristic tendencies embedded within gender dynamics. It also examines how societal expectations predict attitudes towards rape victims, including the normalization of violence through the subjugation of women and the enforcement of gender norms. The paper highlights how Lights Out illuminates these societal flaws, questioning the conformity of gender roles and challenging the pervasive violence against women. Ultimately, the research underscores the significance of addressing these attitudes and practices to foster a more equitable and just society.

Violent victimization in adolescence spurs risk-taking behaviors (e.g., violent offending and substance use/abuse), undermines mental well-being, disrupts developmental transitions, and even has interpersonal and relational consequences. Adolescent victims initiate earlier and progress faster through sexual and romantic relationships. Because the reasons for the links between victimization and relationship behaviors remain unclear, we explored how violent victimization might shape how adolescents think and feel about intimate/romantic relationships. We focus specifically on interest in forming relationships and expectations about intimate/sexual activity occurring within relationships. Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health; n = 10,570 [54% girls; 56% non-Hispanic white; ages 11–18]), we found that adolescent victims of violence were more pessimistic about marriage and more favorable toward sexual activity, with patterns varying by age at victimization and gender. Late adolescent victims were marginally more interested in romantic relationships but were pessimistic about marriage. Early adolescent and girl victims were less favorable toward sexual activity in relationships, while later adolescent and boy victims were more permissive. Violent victimization may foster problematic attitudes toward intimate relationships, which may account for previously observed increased involvement in risky relational and sex behaviors.

Why do cohorts differ in their attitudes toward sexual orientation and what is the role of societal values during formative years? We investigate whether discontinuities in the prevailing values of equality and tradition in a person's formative years impinge on their attitudes toward sexual orientation as adults.We test this by integrating historical political data from the Manifesto Project Dataset with contemporary micro-data on attitudes toward sexual orientation from 10 rounds of the European Social Survey (2002-2020) across 13 cohorts in 13 European countries.Using hierarchical age-period-cohort analysis with synthetic age cohorts, we find if the value of equality is politically diffuse, it can have a socializing effect. We find that the individuals who came of age during a period when political values of equality were more dominant are more tolerant of gays and lesbians. On the other hand, we do not find any evidence that individuals who experience youth during a time of more traditional political values have more negative opinions about different sexual orientations. Overall, these findings suggest that cohorts adopt distinct patterns of attitudes toward gays and lesbians as a result of a collective process of socialization during their impressionable years.

Many of the sexual problems of the couples that come to psychology and sexology consultations are due to erroneous beliefs surrounding the topic of sex. Beliefs that have been turned into widespread sexual myths and fallacies in society. In this study, we conducted a survey on knowledge and fallacies related to sexual intercourse with a large Spanish random sample. Our aim was to evaluate the presence of these fallacies and myths in today's modern society. A total of 1162 participants of different genders (female, male, and non-binary), different sexual orientation (mostly heterosexual) and different ages (from 14 –two cases- to 64 with mean of 24.62 and SD of 8.96), answered an online questionnaire, developed ad hoc for this study, during the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. This questionnaire or survey collects the different fallacies, myths and “machismo” attitudes collected in clinical practice (psychology/sexology) that have caused couples or individuals to request professional therapeutic help, as well as knowledge related to sexual practices. The results show that the current level of knowledge is in general good (between 99 and 73% of adequate responses, with some exceptions mainly related to anatomy), higher among women (reaching their highest percentage of correct answers at 99%) than men (reaching their highest percentage of correct answers at 97%), and independent of age. In addition, we observe the weight and relationship that certain myths and traditional cultural fallacies have, as well as the presence of false expectations and beliefs about what the "ideal" sexual relationship should be, which are still very present in modern Spanish society, and which are responsible for the majority of clinical consultations and alleged disorders related to couples’ sexual life. These myths, false beliefs, and unrealistic expectations, as well as the subtle attitudes of "machismo" (that people are not aware that they possess), must be combated (information, campaigns) since they are responsible for many of the apparent disorders and dysfunctions in the human sexual response (which are mostly attributed to women), and in the sexual life, in general, of couples. This study presents the level that these fallacies and negative attitudes are present in a large sample in Spain, and the questionnaire developed will allow evaluating the level of presence of these fallacies and negative attitudes, both in different societies/ groups and in particular individuals. Information that will be of great help to professional therapists who treat dysfunctions and sexual problems in couple/marital life, which are based on these fallacies, on attitudes of “machismo” and/or on the lack of knowledge on the one's own sex and that of their partner.

Masculinity norms and gender socialization play a critical role in shaping boys’ attitudes, behaviours, and interactions within society. In South Africa, historical legacies of colonialism and apartheid, coupled with deeply ingrained cultural and societal expectations, have contributed to rigid masculinity norms that emphasize dominance, emotional restraint, and aggression. These constructs not only influence boys’ development but also have significant implications for gender-based violence (GBV). This paper explores how norms of masculinity and processes of gender socialization among boys in South Africa shape attitudes and behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence (GBV). The central aim is to offer a critical theoretical synthesis and contextual analysis that informs the development of gender-equitable policies and interventions. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as hegemonic masculinities, intersectionality, and social learning theory, this study examines how historical, cultural, and socio-economic factors shape gender socialization and influence boys’ developmental trajectories. Through an intersectional lens, this paper underscores the urgent need to challenge harmful masculinity norms and promote alternative models that encourage emotional expression, empathy, and equitable gender relations. Finally, it provides recommendations on how these harmful norms can be disrupted through educational, community, media, and policy-level reforms to foster healthier masculinity norms and reduce GBV in South Africa.

No abstract available

BACKGROUND Services have a duty to uphold the personal and sexual relationship (P&SR) rights of adults with intellectual disability. However, little is known about how social care workers' (SCWs) perceptions of public views of intellectual disability and sexuality might affect their attitudes, believes and behaviours towards supporting P&SR needs. This exploratory study addresses this gap in knowledge. MATERIALS AND METHODS Qualitative interviews using critical incident technique were conducted with 18 SCWs. Data were transcribed and thematically analysed. RESULTS Four dominant themes were identified; socio-cultural, practice-policy gaps, fear and safety needs. These highlights how perceptions of public attitudes impact on SCWs' attitudes towards supporting development of P&SR both directly and through perceptions of organisational policies. This leads to prioritisation of safety needs over support for P&SR. CONCLUSIONS Public expectations strongly influenced SCWs' interpretation of organisational policy, emphasising a need for practice-based support to manage public expectations and reduce fear.

This study examines the relationships between rape myth acceptance (RMA), traditional gender roles, sexual conservatism, and belief in a just world among Jewish mothers and daughters in Israel, comparing religious and secular communities. A total of 151 mother-daughter pairs (76 religious, 75 secular) participated. Regression and path analyses were conducted to explore intergenerational transmission of gender and sexual attitudes. Findings indicate that religious women endorse more traditional gender roles, sexual conservatism, and RMA than secular women, with mothers generally holding more conservative attitudes than daughters. However, intergenerational differences were more pronounced in religious groups, suggesting exposure to global and pluralistic values among younger religious women. Path analysis revealed that mothers' RMA mediated the transmission of conservative gender attitudes to their daughters. These findings highlight the role of familial socialization and societal exposure in shaping attitudes toward gender and sexual violence. The study underscores the need for targeted educational interventions to challenge rape myths and promote gender equality, especially in conservative societies.

Differentiation based on sex is fundamental to human beings. Being born into one of the categories, namely male or female, becomes significant in later life, dictating social interactions, behavior, attitudes, and traits. Gender socialization further reinforces the differences and sets boundaries for interaction. The intrinsic urge to associate with each other and experience the otherwise forbidden sex gratification drives them to be closer to each other. This results in an inevitable bonding between males and females leading to an organized institutional entity namely family, and still further larger conglomerates such as community or society. The attraction between opposite sexes forms the basis for all clusterings. In the meantime, another set of forces exists that forbids indiscriminate bonding and determines patterns of interaction. This manner of viewing society as based on two diametrically opposing forces arising from sexual differentiation namely attraction and repulsion serves to understand the dialectics of transactions that shape social life. Conceived this way the very existence of organized life in society is the result of the twin forces of repulsion and attraction between sexes. Repulsion is a social construct whereas attraction is an individual instinct. Repulsion is associated with sexual differences and sexual identity contributed by factors such as role, age, and anonymity and social compulsion. An analysis based on sex as the pivot of social life transcends the notions of structural hierarchy, mode of production, wealth and economy, concentration of power and occupational segmentation, etc. as determinants of organized social life. An attempt has been made here to examine the dynamics of sexual differentiation and associated factors that constitute the fundamentals of social organization.

Introduction. A growing personality, in adolescence, finding itself on the threshold of adulthood, faces difficulties in determining its own intimate perspective and value guidelines for the future. Different directions and views on intimate relationships create a situation of choice, self-understanding and quick response. At the same time, personal attitudes, stereotypes, and expectations, which often are not just unformed, but destructive, are becoming increasingly important. The purpose of this study is to identify the features of gender self-esteem and characteristics of subjective gender perception in three groups of young men: those who committed sexual crimes, violent crimes and prosocial young people. Materials and methods. The study involved 135 young men aged 16-18, including those accused of violent, sexual crimes and representatives of the prosocial group. The analysis of the features of gender self-esteem and subjective gender perception was carried out using the "Personal Semantic Differential" technique. KEYWORDS Research results. Unique aspects of gender self-esteem and perception of gender space in young men involved in violent sexual crimes have been revealed. Thus, the indicators of self-esteem of representatives of this group indicate its inadequacy, which is expressed, on the one hand, in reliably lower assessments of the formation of masculine characteristics in themselves, in particular, activity (Ac = 23,14; p < 0.05) and reliably more pronounced emotional qualities (Ac = 10,08; p < 0.05). On the other hand, the inadequacy of self-esteem is revealed as a low level of self-acceptance (Ocs = 12,66), the differences with similar indicators in the "assessments of men" are statistically significant (p < 0.05). The profiles of the ideal man and men in general are characterized by higher indicators of the expression of masculine qualities, reliably (at the 95% level) differing from similar indicators in the group of prosocial young men. In the gender perceptions of violent delinquents, female peers are attributed with a greater expression of masculine characteristics (Acd = 22.07; Vd = 16.12; p < 0.05) and a lesser expression of traditionally feminine properties (Emd = 15.63; Nrd = 10.24; p < 0.01). Conclusion. The study provides a basis for the development and implementation of programs aimed at preventing and correcting the behavioral tendencies of young men predisposed to committing sexual crimes. The data obtained can help in developing programs aimed at supporting the social adaptation of young men with behavioral problems and increasing the effectiveness of the work of teachers, psychologists and social workers.