Social Media and Development of Sexual and Gender Identity in Adolescents

Authors

Daniel J. Suto
Jack L. Turban
Erin L. Belfort, Department of Psychiatry, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA; Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2025

Institution/Department

Psychiatry

Journal Title

Pediatric clinics of North America

MeSH Headings

Humans; Social Media; Adolescent; Gender Identity; Adolescent Development (physiology); Female; Sexual Behavior (psychology); Adolescent Behavior (psychology); Male; Sexual Development (physiology)

Abstract

Sexual and gender development are key components of adolescence. As social media becomes increasingly ingrained in youth culture, it is essential to understand its impact on these developmental pathways. Social media provides a novel avenue for adolescents to explore identity, sexuality, and intimacy-as well as newfound autonomy and risk taking. Adolescents typically use social media for age-appropriate interactions and many find mental health benefits, alongside potential risks to mental and physical health. Clinicians should use a nonjudgmental tone to inquire about adolescent online behaviors and to counsel patients on safe and developmentally appropriate identity and relationship development.

First Page

279

Last Page

289

Recommended Citation

Suto, Daniel J.; Turban, Jack L.; and Belfort, Erin L., "Social Media and Development of Sexual and Gender Identity in Adolescents" (2025). MaineHealth Maine Medical Center. 3954.
https://knowledgeconnection.mainehealth.org/mmc/3954