Understanding Risky Sexual Behavior of Female Youth-at-risk in Hong Kong

Abstract

The risky sexual behavior (RSB) of youth-at-risk (YAR) has been of much concern to frontline youth work practitioners and the government. There are huge social and actual costs involved. This paper presents a study that used a qualitative method of in-depth individual interviews with eight female YAR who had engaged in RSB. Their sexual experiences, reasons for having sex, perceptions of RSB, contraceptive practices, and the consequences of RSB were explored. An understanding of the different aspects of the RSB of female YAR is enhanced through the study. Based on the findings, recommendations on sex education for YAR and possible future studies are made.