Social media exposure, interpersonal network, and tampon use intention: A multigroup comparison based on network structure

J Health Psychol. 2023 Mar;28(4):343-355. doi: 10.1177/13591053221120332. Epub 2022 Sep 1.

Abstract

The scarcity of tampons in China has attracted scholarly attention. Extending the theory of planned behavior with social network structure, this cross-sectional online survey (N = 763) found that exposure to tampon-related information on social media was positively related to Chinese women's tampon use intentions. This association was mediated through attitudes, descriptive norms, and self-efficacy toward using tampons. Furthermore, the effects of social media exposure differed among people with different network structures. Our findings shed light on the promotion of nonconventional feminine hygiene products, which, in turn, may enhance Chinese women's well-being and gender equity across the globe.

Keywords: Women’s health; feminine hygiene product; social media; social network; theory of planned behavior.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attitude
  • China
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intention
  • Social Media*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires