Exploring the Prevalence and Influencing Factors of Sexually Explicit Internet Material (SEIM) Consumption among Adolescents and Young Adults in Cambodia

Purpose: This study investigates the prevalence and factors associated with the consumption of sexually explicit Internet material (SEIM) among adolescents and young adults in Cambodia. Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional study design, data were collected through a survey administered to 1,271 participants. The survey focused on measuring SEIM consumption, sexual sensation seeking, perceived reality of SEIM, and sexual attitudes. Findings: The study revealed a SEIM prevalence of 27.2%, with notably higher rates among males (35.5%) than females (18.6%). Significant predictors of SEIM consumption included being male, having a father with a middle-level education, engaging in alcohol or substance consumption, spending more than five hours daily on electronic devices, having friends with sexual experience, frequent thoughts about sex, a heightened interest in sex compared to peers, perceiving SEIM as realistic, and maintaining a permissive attitude towards sex. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of implementing education programs to address SEIM consumption and its potential risk factors. Such initiatives are crucial for preventing the use of SEIM among Cambodian youth, promoting a healthier understanding of sexuality, and fostering responsible online behavior.