Sexual Socialization Messages on Television Programs Most Popular Among Teens

Abstract

This paper examines the portrayal of sexual messages in the top 20 most popular television programs among teenagers in the United States. It compares findings from the 20012002 and 20042005 seasons. Results show that these programs contained a large number of sexual messages, though their frequency decreased over time. Most messages about sex were in the form of conversations. About 1 in 2 shows included portrayals of sexual behaviors, mostly precursory behaviors. Sexual risk and responsibility concerns were rarely addressed. Most consequences for sexual intercourse portrayed in 20042005 were negative, a significant change from 20012002. The findings implications for adolescents sexual socialization are discussed.One of the critical challenges facing young people today is developing a healthy understanding of their sexuality. The U. S. Surgeon General (2001) has underscored the importance of this task as one of the nations leading public health concerns. Knowledge about sexually related matters that is gained in formative years builds the foundation for beliefs and attitudes about sex that can influence each individuals life-long pattern of sexual behavior.Parents, peers, and schools play a central role in the sexual socialization process. Yet the mass media, and particularly television, are another important element likely to contribute to young peoples sexual development (American Academy of Pediat-) is a lecturer in the Sammy Ofer School of Communications at the Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel. Her research interests include media content and effects, with a focus on youth socialization. Dale Kunkel (Ph.D., University of Southern California) is a Professor of Communication at the University of Arizona, where he studies children and media effects.Erica N. Biely (M.A., University of Arizona) is a research specialist in the Department of Communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Keli L. .innerty (M.A., Pepperdine University) is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Arizona. Her research interests include media effects and media content.

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