Porn Literacy for Adolescents

The Boston Public Health Commission’s Start Strong program is an international leader in utilizing media literacy projects to engender conversations in preventing teen dating violence and promoting healthy relationships. Research suggests that virtually all U.S. youth have seen sexually explicit media (i.e., pornography) once or more by the time that they are 18. Using qualitative and quantitative research with youth about their use of pornography and dating experiences, and expertise in youth-developed and trauma-informed frameworks, BPHC created The Truth About Pornography, a nine-session pornography literacy curriculum The curriculum engenders conversations around porn, increasing healthy communication, and emphasizing consent.

This session describes the research underpinning the curriculum, its goals, efficacy, and implementation.

Presenters: Jess Alder, MPA and David Goldstajzn, PhD
Presentation Date: February 18, 2025