Philippine E-Journals

Use of Online Dating and Social Networking Sites and Risky Sexual Behavior

Dave Bodiongan | Erika Jill Diaz | Monique Tagaytay

 

Abstract:

As the number of HIV/ AIDS continue to rise, it is important to constantly examine factors that contribute to the alarming rate at which sexually transmitted diseases especially HIV/ AIDS are spread in society. Online Dating and Social Networking sites have evolved over the years as more and more people are engaging in this kind of activity. Online social and dating sites give its users the opportunity to communicate with different people within their own social networks or are able to extend their own social network to include complete strangers. This could possibly lead to increased online interaction and later lead to offline activities and actual relationships. This study aimed to identify the level of use of social networking sites and dating sites and its relationship to users’ tendency to engage in risky sexual behaviors. By conducting a survey among 168 respondents, it was found that the respondents have a High level of usage of online dating social media platforms averaging 7 to 9 hours of use per week. The study also found that the respondents were likely to engage in necking, petting or have sexual intercourse with someone they met online. The respondents also said they would also likely have a one night stand with someone they met online and generally likely engage in risky sexual behavior with people encountered in online dating and social networking sites. The study found a positive but low significant correlation between the use of online dating and social networking sites and risky sexual behavior.