 |
The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
|
The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Julie Rae E. Temby, MPH, Lisa K. Gilbert, PhD, and Sarah E. Rogers. Health Promotion and Evaluation, American Social Health Association, P.O. Box 13827, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, 919-361-8420, jultem@ashastd.org
Adolescents 13 to 17 and young adults 18 to 24 comprise the high-risk age group for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). These individuals increasingly access the Internet for health-related information that is sensitive, difficult to talk about or less easily accessible from other sources. Can sexual health education sites provide content to meet the needs of teenagers and young adults alike? The concerns and information needs of 13-year-olds vary dramatically from those of older adolescents and young adults. Moreover, teens of the same age can differ substantially in psychosocial and physical development. The American Social Health Association conducted a survey of users of its teen sexual health Web site (www.iwannaknow.org). Researchers discovered that young adults constitute a substantial part of the site’s audience, in addition to the 13 to 17-year olds for whom the site was designed. Survey results indicate differences in the types of information sought by users in these respective age groups. Teens were more likely to report looking for information on “virginity,” “puberty,” “teen pregnancy” and “sexuality.” Those 18 to 24, however, reported more interest in topics related to specific sexually transmitted diseases, particularly symptoms and treatment. Further differences emerged in users’ reasons for visiting the site. Teens were more likely to report seeking information for a class or for general curiosity, while young adults were more likely to report seeking information for a friend or sexual partner. Findings and their implications for shaping sexual health educational materials for teen and young adult audiences will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Internet
Related Web page: www.iwannaknow.org
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: American Social Health Association
William T. Grant Foundation
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.