Media use and the development of sexual knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors

The literature indicates that media content popular among young users frequently shows biased sexual messages. Different media effect theories (e.g., social cognitive theory and cultivation theory), but also self-effects theories (e.g., self-perception theory) explain how sexually-oriented media interactions may shape and change sexual identities in (young) media users. Specifically, research has documented how media use relates to negative safe sex beliefs and practices, increased sexually permissive attitudes and behaviors, and gender stereotypical attitudes and behaviors. The literature has further suggested four attention points that are key for understanding sexual media effects. First, sexual media effects are dependent on the type of media genre and platform that is consumed. Second, sexual media effects can be explained by underlying (i.e., mediating) processes. Third, sexual media effect relationships can be reciprocal. Fourth and finally, sexual media use can also relate to a positive sexuality. More attention to such positive sexual outcomes is needed.