Digital Zines as Mental and Sexual Health Communication Tools for Latina Teens: Format and Content Acceptability and Initial Findings

Abstract

Recognizing the potential of digital zines (defined as self-published, online publications combining artwork and text) as culturally tailored health communication tools, this article examines the acceptability and impacts of two digital zines about mental and sexual health created by Latina young people for Latina teens as a health communication strategy. We conducted an anonymous online survey completed by Latina teens who read the zines (32 for sexual health and 33 for mental health). Data analysis aimed to explore, summarize, and interpret the collected data using an artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced approach. Survey participants found the zine format and content acceptable and engaging with the zines had several positive impacts on Latina teens, influencing their emotions, knowledge, and perspectives. The digital zines resonated with Latina teens, providing accessible and engaging content for exploring sexual and mental health topics. This study resulted in valuable insights into the use of AI-enhanced approaches to data analysis and the potential effectiveness of digital zines as a health communication strategy among Latina teens. However, further validation through larger-scale studies with more robust methodologies is needed. Our findings show that zines can be leveraged as an effective health communication tool among Latina teens, providing preliminary evidence that can be used to support zine development and dissemination initiatives within additional communities.