What is sex and why it matters to young people? Sex is an essential aspect of human life that affects individuals' emotions, physical health, social connections, and mental well-being. It can be a source of pleasure, intimacy, creativity, exploration, and expression.
It also raises many ethical issues related to consent, boundaries, safety, and power dynamics. Many video-bloggers and streamers discuss sexuality publicly online, often using explicit language and graphic images. Young viewers are exposed to these discussions from an early age, which may influence their attitudes and behaviors around sex. This essay will examine how video-bloggers discuss sexual initiation, partner roles and consent, and the potential impact on young viewers.
Sexual initiation
Sexual initiation refers to the moment when one person initiates sexual activity with another. Video-bloggers tend to focus on several approaches to this act, such as boldness, confidence, assertiveness, persistence, or subtlety. They often advise viewers to take the lead by explicitly expressing interest in a partner, making eye contact, touching them, or asking them out for a date. Some bloggers suggest waiting until the other person initiates first, while others advocate being proactive. Bloggers differ in their advice regarding gender roles during initiation, but most agree that women should not feel pressured into having sex if they do not want to.
The popular vlogger Laci Kay Somers suggests taking a woman to dinner, paying attention to her body language, and asking directly if she wants to have sex without expecting a "yes." Other bloggers, like Mia Khalifa, recommend avoiding manipulation tactics or coercion. In general, video-bloggers emphasize respecting partners' preferences, limits, and boundaries during sexual initiation.
Some experts argue that these frames may promote objectification of women and male entitlement, leading to negative consequences for both genders.
Partner roles
Video-bloggers also explore different expectations about sexual partner roles, including who initiates, who takes charge, and what kind of behavior is acceptable during sex. Many advocate for equal participation between partners, where each party feels comfortable sharing desires, exploring new things, and communicating non-verbal cues. Others prioritize traditional gender roles, with men expected to be assertive and confident while women are passive and submissive. This can reinforce harmful stereotypes and power imbalances that perpetuate sexual assault, domestic violence, and harassment. Vlogger Gabbie Hanna promotes mutual pleasure and connection, recommending active listening and open communication between partners to ensure everyone enjoys themselves. Other streamers, like Belle Delphine, advocate for more adventurous and playful behaviors during sex, encouraging viewers to try different positions, props, or costumes. Still, others believe in strict rules and hierarchies, such as the vlogger Jake Paul, who advises viewers to treat their partner like a queen or king. Regardless of the specific advice, bloggers generally agree on the importance of consent and safety before engaging in any sexual activity.
Consent and sexual norms
Video-bloggers discuss consent, often emphasizing its central role in healthy relationships. They advise clear and consistent communication about boundaries, limits, and preferences to avoid misunderstandings or coercion. The popular streamer PewDiePie urges viewers to establish verbal consent before every step of intimacy, especially when drunk or high. Bloggers also recommend asking permission before touching someone's body parts, using explicit language to clarify intentions, and respecting any response.
Some experts argue that this approach may overemphasize legalistic and transactional aspects of consent, which could interfere with spontaneity and authentic connection. Video-bloggers may contribute to shifting cultural norms around sex, including the normalization of casual hookups, pornography consumption, and non-monogamy. These trends can have both positive and negative consequences for young people, including increased risk-taking behavior, social isolation, and mental health issues.
It is unclear how influential these frames are on viewers' attitudes and behaviors towards sex. More research is needed to explore potential impacts and implications for society at large.
Video-bloggers play an essential role in educating young people about sexuality and intimacy. Their advice on initiation, partner roles, and consent has both benefits and drawbacks, depending on the specific blogger and viewer. Further research should explore how viewers interpret and apply these frames in their own lives, as well as the broader societal context surrounding sexuality and relationships.
How do video‑bloggers or streamers discussing sex and intimacy frame sexual initiation, partner roles and consent, and how influential are these frames for young viewers?
According to research, some online influencers discussing sex and intimacy may use frameworks such as "communication is key" or "respect for boundaries. " These framings can be influenced by cultural norms or personal experiences, but they often emphasize the importance of open communication and mutual respect between partners.