Effectiveness of Cartoons, Comics, and Animation-Based Sexual Health Promotion and Education Interventions: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objective: Sexual health education is crucial for promoting healthy sexual behaviors among people of all ages. Interventions involving cartoons, comics, and animations have emerged as effective tools due to their engaging and accessible nature. This scoping review explores the effectiveness of these interventions across different time frames and age groups.

Methods: Using the PICOS framework and PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews, a review was conducted across 14 databases to include relevant studies published between 2000 and 31 May 2024.

Results: Analyzing 51 intervention studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria revealed varied outcomes in interventions that highlight a significant shift in focus from developing educational tools and empowering youth in the earlier period (2000-2010) to implementing advanced technology-based cartoons, comics, and animations interventions and addressing diverse populations in the later period (2011-2024). The results of these studies were predominantly positive, with many reporting significant improvements in knowledge, behaviors, and engagement.

Conclusion: While many studies report positive outcomes, further investigation is needed into the long-term impact of digital-based cartoons, comics, and animation interventions on behavior change and health outcomes. Research should also explore the effectiveness of these tools in different cultural and socioeconomic contexts to ensure their broad applicability. Ongoing research and iterative development are warranted to ensure that these interventions continue to evolve and meet the changing needs of users in an increasingly digital world across diverse populations.

Keywords: Cartoons; animation; comics; education; interventions; sexual health.