This study sought to understand the associations between different forms of sexual health education and the impact they have on sexual attitudes among college students. Studies have shown that positive sexual experiences, and comprehensive sexual education, lead to better mental health, physical health, and interpersonal relationships. Furthermore, studies have shown that the majority of people search the internet for sexual health information and that it has the potential of being beneficial. However, little research has been done on the way in which students educate themselves, and the effects of sexual education on sexual shame among college. Sexual shame is formed by negative sexual attitudes and is important as it impacts mental health and wellbeing.

Using survey methodology, this study assessed college students’ levels of formal and internet sexual education, and their sexual shame. The survey collected 308 responses from undergraduate students ages 18 to 25 years. The results suggested significant positive associations between online sexual information seeking and sexual shame, as well as between formal and internet sexual education. The correlation between formal and internet sexual education could suggest that those who have sexual knowledge may be more aware of topics they should research compared to those who received little formal sexual education before college. Because formal sexual education is associated with internet sexual education, which is correlated with sexual shame, the implications of this study suggest that formal education could be improved by teaching internet literacy. By teaching media literacy, and how to search for sexual information, perhaps internet sexual education’s association with sexual shame could decrease which has the potential to lead to healthier sexual experiences. 

Thank you to The Ruth Marcus Kanter College Alumni Society Research Grant, AHA! Lab, and the Annenberg School for Communication​ for funding this research.
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