Understand sexual risk behaviours in young adults and challenges in their education

  1. Alonso-Martínez, Laura 1
  2. Fernández-Hawrylak, María 1
  3. Heras-Sevilla, Davinia 1
  4. Ortega-Sánchez, Delfín 1
  1. 1 Universidad de Burgos
    info

    Universidad de Burgos

    Burgos, España

    ROR https://ror.org/049da5t36

Journal:
Qualitative Research in Education

ISSN: 2014-6418

Year of publication: 2021

Volume: 10

Issue: 2

Pages: 172-203

Type: Article

DOI: 10.17583/QRE.2021.6996 DIALNET GOOGLE SCHOLAR lock_openDialnet editor

More publications in: Qualitative Research in Education

Abstract

Sexual risk behaviours are considered sexual conducts that can cause biological, psychological and social damage. Therefore, sexuality education is considered the only effective way to avoid it. This project aims to understand sexual risk behaviour factors and their consequences in young adults and to explore strategies they would use to face them. To answer these questions, we conducted a qualitative study in which we interviewed 11 young adults using an asynchronous mail technique due to the Covid19 pandemic. We also carried out a thematic analysis and developed our key results: 1) Sexual attitudes and behaviours; 2) Sexual risk factors, 3) Sexual risk consequences; and 4) Educational approach and strategies. Similarities in the themes were verified with previous literature, exposing the importance of learning to identify factors and consequences to respond appropriately. Participants believe that comprehensive and egalitarian sexuality education applied at individual and community level is a solid method that can improve sexual health and well-being. To conclude, this study reveals the importance of listening to young adults’ perspectives towards these conduct variables and educational approaches in order to establish global health strategies that could be based on these results.

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