IJCM_2A: Perceptions of and challenges faced by college students in receiving sexual health education during their school days- An exploratory study

Abstract

Background: Sexuality health education stands as an essential cornerstone in shaping the physical, emotional, and social well-being of young adults, and nowhere is this need more evident than in India. As a country known for its diverse culture, traditions, and a burgeoning youth population, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities pertaining to sexual health education is of paramount importance. Currently, there is no existing curriculum or syllabus for sexual health education in schools or colleges. Methodology: Qualitative data was obtained by conducting in depth interviews. Around 10-20 In depth interviews were conducted. Participants were college going students who gave consent and were open to talk about the topic. Interview was conducted using an interview guide and the process was audio recorded. Data was analysed manually using grounded theory. Results: The themes generated were previous exposure to sexual health education, Sources of information, topics under sexual health education. Challenges faced by young adults were explored under the following themes- difficulties faced during school/ college, past experiences, cultural taboos etc. Many young adults advocated the need for sexual health education. Surprisingly a few handfuls of students thought it was not necessary to teach sexual health education at all. However, all of them were not satisfied with the education they received on sexual health in the past. Conclusion: This study sheds a spotlight on the lack of sexual health education and its repercussions on young adults today. Difficulties faced by young college going students can be used to design an age appropriate culturally sensitive sexual health curriculum for school going adolescents.