Representations of adolescents on HIV/AIDS with a focus on sexuality and vulnerability to infections

Abstract

Abstract Background The highest increase in AIDS cases in Brazil is among 15-24 years old. In the last eight years, there have been almost 30,000 new cases in this population group, which represents an average of 10 new cases per day. This chart highlights the importance of promoting health and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and AIDS for this population group. The purpose of the present study is to understand representations of adolescents of both sexes on HIV/AIDS, focusing on sexuality and vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections. Methods This is a research with a qualitative approach based on the theory of Representations and included in the study 28 adolescents high school students of two state public schools. Data collection took place through open interviews, held individually at agreed times and locations between the researchers and the direction of the schools. The interviews were of the in-depth type, with a semi-structured script, containing questions that allowed the participant to narrate facts, express their points of view, value judgments, and evaluate actions and ways of thinking about sexuality, sexual health and risk of infection HIV and other STIs, yours and others. Results The data were interpreted based on the Structural Analysis of Narration, being grouped into two categories: Sexuality; Risks involved in sexual intercourse. This study highlighted the complexity that involves issues related to sexuality and adolescence, just as adolescents deal with the risks of becoming infected with an STI. There are differences between representations of sexual relations for adolescent females and males. Conclusions The representations of adolescents about sexuality and about HIV/AIDS prevention are structured more in their exchanges and experiences in the social space, with colleagues and friends, than in family institutions and in school. It is necessary that there be continuous actions and not only in specific periods. Key messages Understanding how adolescents experience sexuality can be the starting point for more effective health promotion actions for this population group. Since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, there have been different ways of coping with this infection. Thus, it is important to know the representation of adolescents today about this theme.