Sexual Coercion Information, Education and Prevention in the Age of Social Media:  A Systematic Content Analysis of YouTube Videos  

 

Sexual coercion (SC), defined as any kind of sexual activity initiated with another person through the use of argument, pressure, pleading, or cajoling, as well as force, pressure, alcohol or drugs, or authority, has been the subject of recent social and political discussion.  It is a broader term and encompasses specific behaviors such as individual acts of harassment, aggression, abuse and rape.  National data indicate the majority of Americans have experienced some form of sexual coercion during their lifetimes, many at an early age.  For this reason, more formative research focusing on primary and secondary prevention—strategies aimed at identifying and addressing risk factors—particularly among youth and young adults is needed.  Given the recent attention paid to SC and its implications, it is important that public and mental health practitioners, researchers and policy makers consider cost-effective, wide-reaching and culturally responsive approaches to prevention. 

 

The purpose of this study is to identify current trends and to analyze the content of popular videos addressing sexual coercion on the YouTube social media platform (www.youtube.com). Findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of current information readily available on ubiquitous social media platforms.  Findings may also help in the formative development of information, education and prevention of SC given the enormity of reach YouTube has, especially among youth and young adults.

 

Funding Source:  PSC-CUNY Traditional A Grant (#61452-00 49)

Principal Investigator:  Nicholas A. Grosskopf, EdD, MCHES
Status:  Funding Current, Project Underway