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Adolescents' Self-presentation on a Teen Dating Web Site: A Risk-Content Analysis
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Adolescents' Self-presentation on a Teen Dating Web Site: A Risk-Content Analysis

Melissa A. Pujazon-Zazik, Stephanie M. Manasse and Joan K. Orrell-Valente
Journal of adolescent health, v 50(5), pp 517-520
May 2012
PMID: 22525117

Abstract

Age differences Gender differences Online behavior Risk-taking behaviors Self-presentation
To analzye adolescents' profiles on MyLol.net, a teen dating Web site, for risk content. We hypothesized that risk content would vary by age and gender. We selected and coded 752 publicly viewable profiles of adolescents aged 14–18 years for the following five risks: sex, alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, and violence. Of the total profiles, 27.7% contained risk-related content: 15.8% sexual behavior, 13.8% alcohol use, 1.6% drug use, 6.8% cigarette smoking, and .9% violence activity. Being female, “single” relationship status, and use of profanity (p < .05) were associated with risk content. Females' profiles were most likely to include risky content, especially sexual content. Adolescent females who have internalized social norms that place a high value on female sexuality may reflect this in their online profiles. Online mention of interest/involvement in risky behavior may have negative consequences (e.g., cyberbullies and sexual predators). Stronger universal Internet policies and education are needed to help protect adolescents.

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
Web of Science research areas
Pediatrics
Psychology, Developmental
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
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