Abstract
The Internet has emerged as a significant source of knowledge about sexuality, particularly because of its anonymity and easy accessibility. The present study examined the sexual content found on TikTok, a social media platform popular with adolescents. The main research question focused on the types of sexual content and messages prevalent on TikTok. The study also explored the identity of those who share information about sexuality on TikTok, the most popular content consumed, and notable omissions. To address these inquiries, we conducted a content analysis of the top 100 videos tagged with the hashtag #sexuality on TikTok. The findings revealed eight recurring themes in the videos. Content creators on TikTok (TikTokers) promoted a positive perspective on sex, emphasizing pleasure and attraction as an alternative to traditional sexuality education, which tends to focus on the risks associated with teenage sexuality. The relationships portrayed in the videos rely on stereotypical gender norms, and the limited duration of the videos allows providing only superficial information. Topics such as watching porn or using contraceptives, which are considered important aspects of comprehensive sexuality education, were scarce or absent on the TikTok videos sampled. This study can help teachers and counsellors responsible for sexuality education programs better understand the content to which adolescents are exposed, enabling them to adapt their conversations and interactions with students accordingly.
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Dolev-Cohen, M., Brief, L. & Cuccì, G. #Sexuality: Sexuality Education Content in TikTok Israel Videos. Sexuality & Culture 28, 1133–1151 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-023-10170-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-023-10170-3