Introduction
In our digital age, where smartphones and computers are nearly as ubiquitous as clothing for teenagers, the influence of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is profound and complex (Dienlin, 2022; Odgers & Jensen, 2020). As we explore this intricate relationship, we delve into how these technologies shape the health choices and behaviors of young people, with a particular focus on their sexual and reproductive well-being.
The widespread use of ICTs among adolescents has revolutionized their access to information and social interactions, significantly impacting their knowledge and attitudes towards SRH (Haddock et al., 2022). This text navigates the dual role of ICTs: on one hand, as a powerful tool for education and empowerment, enhancing access to health information and promoting safe practices (Haddock et al., 2022; Webb et al., 2017); and on the other, as a potential source of misinformation and exposure to harmful content (Andrie et al., 2021).
Our journey here is to provide a nuanced view of this landscape, acknowledging the benefits of digital technology in adolescent health while also addressing its challenges. In balancing these aspects, we aim to offer insights into leveraging technology for the betterment of adolescent health in today's digital-centric world .
Correlation between ICT usage and adolescent sexual behaviors
The intersection of ICTs with adolescent sexual behaviors has been a focal point of recent research. A study published in the Communication Research (Peter & Valkenburg, 2006) identified a significant correlation between frequent digital
technology use and earlier initiation of sexual activities in
adolescents. The study observed that male adolescents with more advanced
pubertal development had higher exposure to online sexually explicit
material, indicating a possible increase in seeking or encountering such
content at a mature pubertal stage. Conversely, for female adolescents,
greater sexual experience was linked to reduced exposure to online
sexually explicit material, suggesting a shift away from digital sources
for sexual information as real-life sexual experiences increase.
A more recent study conducted by
Lin et al. (2020)
highlighted a similar finding: there is a correlation between early
exposure to sexually explicit media during adolescence and the onset of
risky sexual behaviors in later adolescence and early adulthood.
Moreover, a more recent study explained that adolescents/teenagers use of unrestricted internet expose them to pornography (Andrie et al., 2021). Meanwhile this is accepted as a process of sexual exploration/normal development of sexuality, early exposure to pornography and unregulated/excess exposure to pornography during the formative years of adolescence has been seen to have various long-term deleterious effects on sexual maturation, sexual behavior, internet addiction, and overall personality development (Adarsh et al., 2023).
However, a study by
Landry et al. (2017),
focusing on changes in sexual risk behavior among Latino teenagers in
Maryland, USA, emphasized the complexity of these correlations. The
authors pointed out that various factors, including socio-economic
background, family environment, parental monitoring, and the nature of
online content, significantly influence this relationship. This suggests that while there is a clear link between ICT use and adolescent sexual behavior, the relationship is not purely causal but rather influenced by a myriad of contextual factors.
Role of ICTs in promoting safe sexual practices
The contribution of ICTs in advancing safe sexual practices among adolescents has been a prominent topic in recent academic research. Brayboy et al.'s (2018) review article in Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology sheds light on the beneficial aspects of ICTs, particularly
mobile apps and online platforms in spreading information about safe SRH practices among minority adolescent girls in the United States. The authors pinpoint the appeal of these digital tools to adolescents due to their provision of confidentiality and accessibility—attributes typically lacking in traditional clinical settings, which often involve parental participation. This preference for privacy and ease of access, even sometimes over medical accuracy, is a notable trend among teenagers, as further discussed in the works of Sawni et al., 2017and Feroz et al., 2021.
A distinct feature of these applications is their incorporation of elements like question-and-answer sections, interactive educational content, and personalized advice. For instance, the "Planned Parenthood Direct" App in the U.S., the Tiko App in Kenya, and the InfoAdoJeunes in Togo. These, along with many other similar apps, offer a range of services, including information on contraception and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) testing. The popularity of these apps among adolescents stems from their ability to provide convenient, private access to sexual health information and services.
Nonetheless, research examining the influence of these digital tools on adolescents' SRH recognizes several challenges. Notably, many studies underscore the necessity of ensuring the accuracy of the information disseminated through these platforms and emphasize the importance of safeguarding the privacy of adolescent users. Gruber & Grube (2000), in particular, call for stringent standards and regulatory oversight to ensure that digital content related to sexual health is both reliable and appropriate for adolescent audiences.
Downsides of ICTs - exposure to explicit content and misinformation
While ICTs offer significant benefits in terms of education and connectivity, they also present notable downsides, especially for adolescents. A critical concern is the exposure of young individuals to explicit content and misinformation through digital channels. This issue has been the subject of various studies, highlighting the need for more vigilant content management and digital literacy education.
A pivotal study in this area is "Influence of internet exposure on sexual behaviour of young persons in an urban district of Southwest Nigeria" (Orulogun et al., 2016, Pan-African Medical Journal). This study found a correlation between unrestricted internet access among adolescents and increased exposure to explicit material and health-related misinformation online. This research suggests that such exposure can lead to distorted perceptions of normal sexual behavior and may contribute to risky sexual practices among teenagers.
Similarly, the study "Using digital technology for sexual and reproductive health: Are programs adequately considering risk?" (Bacchus et al., 2019, Global Health: Science and Practice) highlights how the digital space, although a rich source of information, often lacks adequate filters to prevent the spread of inaccurate or harmful content about sexual and reproductive health. This study emphasizes the challenges adolescents face in discerning credible information from misleading or false content.
These concerns are echoed in "Reducing harm from media: A meta-analysis of parental mediation" (Chen & Chi, 2018, Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly), which examines the role of parental supervision in mitigating exposure to harmful online content. Chen & Chi argue that while parental control plays a crucial role, it is also essential to educate adolescents about safe and responsible internet use.
Summary and conclusion
To summarize the discussion, the influence of Information and Communication Technologies on adolescent sexual and reproductive health behaviors is multifaceted. On one hand, ICTs provide adolescents with access to sexual and reproductive health information, promoting knowledge and safe practices. On the other hand, they can expose adolescents to explicit content and misinformation, leading to risky behaviors. It is, therefore, crucial for parents, educators, and health professionals to guide adolescents in using communication technologies responsibly. They need to ensure that adolescents have access to accurate and age-appropriate sexual and reproductive health information.
In conclusion, while ICTs have a significant influence on adolescent sexual and reproductive health behaviors, the impact can be both positive and negative. It is up to us, as a society, to guide our adolescents in navigating the digital world, ensuring they have the right information and tools to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Remember, knowledge is power, and in the digital age, the right use of communication technologies can empower our adolescents to make healthy choices and live healthier lives.