SOCIAL MEDIA IN ADOLESCENCE: A NEW ARENA FOR SEXUALITY, RISKY BEHAVIORS, IDENTITY, AND RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

Relevance. The use of social networking services (SNSs) has been reported as one of the favorite activities for adolescents. Over the past decade, SNSs have become some of the most important venues for socializing, as well as identity-building. Adolescence is the phase during which individuals construct a critical part in the process of constructing their sexual identity and gender. The aim of this review was to explore and address the way in which social media and SNSs are affecting and changing adolescent sexuality, the type of relationship adolescents establish in their fi rst sexual experiences, including possible risky consequences like cyberbullying, sexting, revenge pornography, excessive use of the Internet, and risky sexual behaviors. Research methods and sample: We included most of the literature found on the specifi c topic of SNSs, using the two databases Pubmed and PsycInfo. Main results: SNSs have become venues for young people to construct themselves, and this can produce positive and negative effects. SNSs offer several opportunities for adolescents to explore their sexuality, and cybersex is often the fi rst activity through which teenagers can explore their sexuality freely. SNS use inevitably affects and is related to adolescents’ sexuality and relationships with peers, sometimes with increasing inclination to risk-taking attitudes and related behaviors. Conclusion: Adolescents are now developing their identities and relationships, including those of a sexual nature, at least in part, in online contexts, particularly via SNSs. As a mechanism for identity and relational development, these online environments present both benefi ts and risks to youth development. Thus, it is essential for clinical providers working with adolescents and families with adolescents to offer support for the positives that youth experience via technology while also working with them to develop preventative and coping strategies to address the risks they may encounter in online environments.