Date of Award

January 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Department

School of Public Health

First Advisor

Olivia Kachingwe

Second Advisor

Andrew Porter

Abstract

Due to the inconsistent and noncomprehensive nature of sexual health education across the United States, many adolescents and emerging adults are turning to digital platforms, specifically social media, for necessary information. The Sex Wrap (TSW), a podcast and Instagram-focused intervention, was established to fill critical knowledge gaps among these populations and empower them in their sexual decision-making. To serve as a case study, engagement metrics from TSW’s Instagram account between October 2020 and September 2021 were analyzed to determine which post types, tones, and thematic categories resonated most with users across the platform. However, Instagram, once a highly effective tool for health education, is increasingly constrained by content restrictions, algorithmic suppression, and policy rollbacks - many stemming from political shifts associated with both Trump administrations. In response, the study situates these initial engagement findings within the rapidly evolving sociopolitical context and underscores the urgent need for policy adaptation in sexual health education. TSW demonstrates how social media can still be leveraged to reach underserved populations, encourage engagement, and foster inclusive, affirming conversations about sexual health. The findings support a forward-looking approach that draws on TSW’s success while emphasizing the need to transition to emerging platforms, such as Flashes and Bluesky, that prioritize transparency, safety, and inclusivity. This study contributes to the growing body of digital public health research and highlights the importance of adapting sexual health education strategies to endure amidst political pressure and social volatility while maintaining accessibility and relevance for today’s youth.

Comments

This thesis is restricted to Yale network users only. It will be made publicly available on 06/16/2026

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