Engaging Parents in Sexually Explicit Media Literacy Education: Expert Perspectives From Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

Aim

To explore sexual health expert's experiences engaging parents in sexually explicit media (SEM) literacy education, including parental comfort, barriers, enablers and insights to improve sexual health education for parents supporting their children to navigate SEM's influence.

Issue Addressed

Research shows that young people frequently view SEM/pornography, often from young ages (9 to 13). This can potentially influence their sexual attitudes. Parents are essential sexuality education providers; however, information assessing parental perspectives, resources, and programmes for SEM literacy is scarce.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with sexual health experts providing SEM literacy education via videoconference between January and April 2023.

Results

Seven, 45-min interviews were conducted with five experts from Australia and two from New Zealand. Experts reported parents being comfortable with the content they presented, yet experienced challenges with resourcing and accessing certain population groups. Participants perceived many parents lacked awareness of SEM availability and available support and wanted to maintain their children's innocence. Effective strategies for parental engagement included offering a variety of delivery formats and creating safe, inclusive environments by maintaining a neutral position on SEM/pornography. Parental and youth engagement in content development are crucial.

Conclusion

Experts encourage harm reduction approaches that support parents' ability to help their children develop the necessary skills to critique SEM and form attitudes conducive to respectful relationships.

So What?

Findings can assist health promotion organisations to effectively engage parents in SEM literacy education and develop content supporting the development of young people's critical analysis skills.