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Uncertainty Management in Online Sexual Health Forums

Bibliographic Data

ID21617238
AuthorsE D Basinger (0000-0003-3877-1858, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, corresponding author), Amy L Delaney (0000-0002-5434-1922, Millikin University), Carter Williams (University of North Carolina at Charlotte), Carter Catlett Williams (University of North Carolina at Charlotte)
Year2023
Volume38
Issue5
Pages875-884
Publication date2023-04-16
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueHealth Communication (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1041-0236 • E-ISSN: 1532-7027
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/10410236.2021.1980253
PMID34605355
OpenAlexW3204846166
LanguageEN
Citations received9
References cited37

Sexual health is critical to overall well-being, yet it is challenging and uncomfortable to discuss. Individuals frequently encounter uncertainty about their sexual health as they experience bodily changes, navigate romantic or sexual relationships, and explore their identities. In this study, we called on uncertainty management theory to guide an investigation of sexual health uncertainty. Specifically, we asked how people use social support to manage their sexual health uncertainty in online forums. Grounded theory analyses revealed that negative emotions, avoidance, and pursuing medical care prompted people to seek emotional and informational support online, and support served three functions: integrating information, assessing risk, and strategizing communication. The results point to stigma as a driving force in sexual health discussions online and imply practical recommendations for sexual education, communication about sexual topics, and patient-provider relationships

Health care · Health communication · Reproductive health · Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health · Gender, Feminism, and Media · LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Medicine · Psychology · Social Psychology

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Unique citing works9
Citations per year4,5
Citation span2024 - 2026 (3)
Citation velocitycurrent
Highly citedNo
Citation typesNeutral: 8
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