Faculty Abstracts

The World Wide Web, Sexuality Information and Adolescents Self-described as Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgendered

Background: The Internet is a powerful and inexpensive way for people to make connections, share information and exchange ideas. 68 percent of people ages 15-24 search the Internet for health information. Between 3-5 % of youths self identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual (GBLT). This does not included transgendered, questioning or those fearful of sharing this information. The Internet can be an especially important source of information for youth who may feel uncomfortable or unsafe seeking assistance through more traditional channels. GBLT teens have fewer resource s than mainstream adolescents.

Purpose: This study was done to determine the number of and content of sites available on the Internet utilizing key words, gay, lesbian and bisexual adolescents, sexuality, STDs and sexual health.

Method: Three popular search engines were utilized to locate sites utilizing key words. The sites were examined for where they appeared in the search, content, and authors.  The top forty sites from each search were examined. Content analysis utilizing SEICUS criteria were employed. Other researchers verified the analysis.

Findings: Quality sites are usually very deep into the search, usually further than teens are known to look. Advertisements for dating services were often at the top of the lists.  Sites developed outside the United States often provide more comprehensive information

Conclusions: Very little good information comes up early in the Internet search, often little information is good for teens.  Gay, lesbian and bisexual teens need quality sites that come up early (first page) in Internet searches. We have the responsibility to provide young people with the information they need to safeguard their sexual health.