Silvaggi M., Todaro E., Rossi V., Aversa F., Rossi R., NIMBI F.M., Simonelli C. (2018). Sexual education and new technologies: the role of social media. 14th Congress of the European Federation of Sexology

Objective: Social Media (SM) and On-line Communities (OC) are increasingly important in youth’s life and the massive use of these technologies by new generations gave rise to an international debate regarding the potential effects on relationships and sexuality. The aim of this paper is to review advantages and limits of SM and OC as ways to build and care relationships and obtain formal and informal information on sexuality by youth, and moreover as sexual education programs delivery tools. Design and Method: A review of scientific literature from January 2007 to May 2017 was performed. The current review has been based on 77 articles published in Google Scholar, Web of science, Scopus, PubMed and PsycINFO about the implementation of technology in sexual education programs. Results: SM platforms such as Short Message Service and Social Networking Sites and OC contribute to develop adolescent identity, self-expression, intimate relationships and social well-being and to obtain health information, in particular related to sexuality. Conclusions: The use of SM and OC among adolescents is not necessarily harmful and could promote a safer youth sexual behavior and more effective sexual education sessions. Therefore, a critical approach to SM and OC is needed in order to promote a safe and beneficial use of such tools.