Sexual health beliefs among minority ethnic families in the north of England

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore beliefs and attitudes regarding sexual health among minority ethnic families. Focus group discussions with a convenience sample from a black African community comprising 32 adults (38–58 years of age) were undertaken. The group discussions were recorded, transcribed and analysed for themes. The findings were analysed using descriptive analysis and a variation of the constant comparative method. Primary themes included the participants' understanding of the concept of sexual health; an insight into sexual health discourse in the home; and the need for culturally appropriate sexual health promotion. This study contributes to our knowledge of black African parents' views on sexual health. It adds to previous literature on sexual health, gives voice to minority parents and their adolescent children, and highlights the importance of social norms, family and cultural values on sexual health.