Peer-Led Sexual Health Education: Multiple Perspectives on Benefits for Peer Health Educators

Abstract

Peer-led education programming is a frequently used strategy for implementing adolescent sexual and reproductive health education. Research on effectiveness has demonstrated mixed outcomes for adolescent participants but consistently indicates benefits for peer health educators. Studies evaluating the impact on peer health educators typically rely on self-reports or feedback from one perspective. This study contributes to the literature by drawing on the perspectives of multiple stakeholder groups to understand the impact of the project on peer educators. Utilizing focus groups and interviews, this study focuses on data collected regarding the perceived effects of a peer-led project on peer educators in a public school setting. Themes reflect positive effects that include growth for peer health educators at school, home, and within the community. Qualitative analyses depicted that the program enhanced peer educators’ knowledge and professional development, increased communication between parents and participants, and inspired the peer educators to be agents of change in their communities outside of project implementation. Implications for future programming and research are addressed.