Sexual Knowledge Research Articles

The comparison of comprehensive sexuality education knowledge and attitudes in CSE-exposed and CSE-naïve non-formal settings in Lagos State, Nigeria.

This study compared the sexual reproductive health and rights related knowledge and attitudes towards inclusive gender norms among students in comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) exposed and naïve technical and vocational centers in Lagos state, Nigeria. It also explored the benefits of teaching and learning about CSE from exposed students and their instructors. A mixed-method research design was used. The study population comprised of students 15-24 years of age attending technical and vocational centers in Lagos State and instructors in CSE-exposed centres. Sample size of 450 per group was calculated. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire; focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used for data collection. Quantitative data was analyzed at p<0.05; coding and thematic analysis of qualitative data was followed by integration and of the findings; and interpreted using the information-motivation-behavioural skills model. Students in CSE-exposed schools had statistically significantly higher SRHR-related knowledge scores and positive attitudes towards inclusive gender norms. The CSE training improved the educational knowledge and teaching modalities of the instructors. The adolescents had increased knowledge, acquired behavioural skills, and changed certain behaviors. The SRHR-related benefits extended to their siblings and friends. This study contributes to the knowledge available on the benefits of CSE for young people in non-formal settings in Nigeria. It revealed that CSE training benefits not only the students but also their instructors, who reported acquisition of new teaching skills and improved parenting skills. The study findings suggest that the integration of CSE into non-formal educational settings could improve the SRHR- related knowledge among young people, promote inclusive gender norms and potentially contribute to improved SRH outcomes and related SDGs in Nigeria.

Cardiovascular diseases risk assessment: the Italian Health Examination Survey 2023 - CUORE Project

Abstract Background The reduction of NCDs premature mortality is pursued by the WHO; risk conditions targets are recommended as well as population-level monitoring of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. The Italian Ministry of Health (MoH) has strengthened prevention/health promotion and supported periodic CVD risk assessment through national health examination surveys (HESs), funded by the MoH-CCM and conducted within the CUORE Project. Methods In 2023 a new HES started including the 10-year fatal and non-fatal CVD risk assessment based on knowledge of sex, age, smoking habit, measured systolic blood pressure and fasting total and HDL serum cholesterol, and presence of diabetes (on measured fasting serum glycemia and/or treatment) and anti-hypertensive therapy. Up to now, data from random samples of residents in 7 Regions (of 20 regions) distributed in North, Centre and South of Italy, aged 35-69 years, without previous CVD, are available (585 men, 617 women). Determinations were assayed by a central lab. CUORE Project functions developed on and for the Italian adults were used. Results Mean values of the CVD risk assessment resulted 6.9% (95% CI: 6.3-7.4) in men and 2.3% (2.1-2.5) in women. For men aged 35-44 years risk was 1.6% (1.5-1.8), for 45-54 years 3.8% (3.5-4.2), for 55-64 years 10.0% (9.0-10.9), for 65-69 years 17.6% (16.4-18.9); for women was 0.5% (0.4-0.6), 1.0% (0.9-1.1), 3.3% (2.9-3.7) and 6.0% (5.5-6.6) respectively. Prevalence of CVD risk less than 5% was 57% (49-64) in men and 88% (84-93) in women, of 10-15% risk were 22% (15-28) of men and 9% (5-14) of women, of 15-20% risk were 5% (1.6-8.0) of men and 0% of women, of over 20% risk were 2% (0-3.6) of men and 0% of women. Conclusions Compared to 2008, these data showed stable mean levels of CVD risk both in men and women at any age-classes and stable prevalence of CVD risk classes. CVD risk perception represents a challenge in primary prevention especially for young age groups and women. Key messages • In the Italian general population, CVD risk assessment remained stable compared to 15 years ago. • CVD risk perception represents a challenge in primary prevention.

Family-based sexual health intervention for adolescents; A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Family-based interventions are important in promoting adolescent sexual health outcomes. However, the effectiveness of these interventions in promoting adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) in Lower and middle-income countries (LMIC) has not been empirically evaluated. This review aimed to summarise the effectiveness of family-based sexual and reproductive health interventions in promoting ASRH in LMIC. Methods We conducted a systematic search for studies published in English from 2000 to October 2023 using MEDLINE, PsyINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases. Studies were included if they involved adolescents aged 10-19 years, included family members in a key intervention component, evaluated the effectiveness of the interventions using an experimental or quasi-experimental design, assessed ASRH outcomes reported by adolescents and were conducted in LMIC setting. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals were computed and meta-analyses were conducted using random effect models. Results Ten articles involving 2,246 participants were included in the review. The studies were nostly conducted in Africa. Across studies, there was no significant impact of family-based interventions in improving adolescent sexual health knowledge (SMD=0.5, 95%CI: -1.98 to 2.98), attitudes (SMD= -0.05, 95%CI: -1.92 to 1.82), practices (SMD=0.53, 95%CI: -0.69 to 1.75), or sexual communication with their family (SMD= 0.14, 95%CI: -0.42 to 0.7). Although individual studies reported a mixed effect of family-based interventions in improving sexual health outcomes, the pooled results from the meta-analysis showed no significant impact of family-based interventions. Conclusions Our review did not find any significant impact of family-based interventions in improving ASRH in LMIC. We recommend interventions using innovative approaches and novel strategies to align with the socio-cultural and economic background of the study setting. Key messages • This study found no significant impact of family-based interventions in improving ASRH in LMIC. • Additional studies, particularly from Asia, using culturally relevant interventions is required in this area.

Sexual health education in Italian schools: preliminary results of EduForIST3 national project

Abstract Background School-based comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is the best approach to disseminate scientific evidence and promote healthier sexual behaviours among young people. However, in Italy, CSE is not included in schools curricula. This study, funded by the Ministry of Health, seeks to investigate information uptake and attitudes towards sexuality among adolescents included in a pilot CSE intervention in 6 Italian regions, from December 2023 to June 2024. Methods A 10-hours education intervention was implemented in a convenient sample of 26 upper and lower secondary schools (U/LSS), covering topics such as changes in adolescence, relationships and consent, sexual identity, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), contraception and sexual health services. Students’ evaluation comprised pre/post tests assessing knowledge, attitudes towards sexuality and satisfaction. A Solomon 4-group design study was used to compare intervention and control classes. A follow-up test will be conducted 4-6 months post-intervention. Results Preliminary analysis of available data as of 30 April, 510 pre-tests and 266 post-tests, showed incremented correct answers in all items. A significant increase (p&amp;lt;.05) was found in 12/21 items for USS and in 9/19 items for LSS, especially in the domain STIs symptoms and prevention, among those mostly appreciated. Over 90% of students considered schools as suitable setting to receive CSE, preferably by external experts. Ongoing qualitative and long-term analysis will provide further insights of the overall impact of the activity. Conclusions The pilot CSE intervention increased the knowledge and attitudes of the students involved. Additional insights will be available after study completion. Findings from this study will contribute to evaluate the effects of CSE initiatives on sexual health knowledge and attitudes among Italian secondary schools students, as well as the effectiveness of such programs in fostering healthier behaviours. Key messages • Providing evidence-based, relevant information and education on sexual health to young people in secondary schools increases their knowledge and improves attitudes towards sexuality. • CSE should be included in Italian school curricula in order to promote an incremental uptake of information and to improve young people’s sexual health.

Theorising Relationships and Sex Education (rse) as a Children’s Rights Issue Using A Foucauldian Lens

Abstract This article seeks to analyse the problems with provision of Relationships and Sex Education (rse) in English schools using a Foucauldian perspective. Through this analysis, I demonstrate that the rse curriculum is used as a tool for “governing” or controlling children’s exercise of their sexuality to ensure conformity with norms, behaviours and attitudes that adults perceive children should ascribe to. However, adults tend to deny children’s developing agency and their autonomy to make decisions in relation to their sexual lives. This ignores the realities of children’s lives, in which they are exposed to sexual knowledge and information through their interactions with others, or via the internet. Using Foucault’s conceptualisation of bio-power, I argue for shifting some of the power around rse discourses from adults to children themselves, through a children’s rights-based approach. This approach to rse will ensure that the curriculum is adequate, appropriate and effective for children.

Evaluation of the Sources of Sexual Knowledge and Information among Men in Kenya

AbstractSources of sexual knowledge and information among men have impact on quality of their sexual literacy and decision making. Sexual knowledge impacts on sexual attitudes, which underpin sexual behaviours and in turn impacts the sexual health outcomes of men. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was used to assess the sources of sexual knowledge and information among 484 Kenyan adult men aged 18–54. Data analysis was performed with STATA-16. Results showed that 79% of men learned about sex from school-based sex education, 75% and 72% from peers and mass media respectively while healthcare professionals (35%) and parents (28%) had the lowest influence on sexual knowledge and information. Understanding men’s sources of sexual knowledge and information that informs their sexual decision making can influence sexuality education planning and sexological practice policies targeted to out of school youths and older men. Hence, appraising formal peer educator’s knowledge could provide transformative sexual and reproductive health support services to men.

The Impact of Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes on Sexual Function Among Health Service Providers: A Structural Equation Model

The Impact of Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes on Sexual Function Among Health Service Providers: A Structural Equation Model

Factors associated with early sexual onset and delaying sex in rural middle school youth.

Early sexual onset contributes to poor health outcomes through the life course. We use the social behavioral model to examine the behaviors and attitudes associated with early sexual onset and the intention to delay sex in middle school youth. Youth in rural communities with high rates of hepatitis C and HIV filled out a survey prior to implementation of an evidence-based sex education program. Participants were asked if they had ever had sex and whether they planned to abstain from sex until the end of high school. We collected demographics, attitudes about abstinence, agency for sexual refusal, parent communication, sexual health knowledge, and history of system involvement. Logistic regression was utilized to examine factors associated with each outcome. Our sample included 6,799 students, 12.7 years old ± 0.9 and 50.3% female. 5.1% had ever had sex and 73.9% planned to abstain until the end of high school. Early sexual onset was associated with older age, negative attitudes toward abstinence, lower agency for sexual refusal, more frequent parent communication about sex, history of child welfare, and history of juvenile involvement. Planning to abstain until the end of high school was associated with being younger, female, positive attitudes toward abstinence, higher agency for sexual refusal, less communication with parents about sex, more communication with parents about relationships, not having a history of foster involvement, and not having a history of juvenile involvement. Age, agency, and parent communication were all associated with both outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of early comprehensive, trauma-informed sex education.

Knowledge, attitude towards, and utilization of friendly health services among school adolescents in the pastoral community of Guji zone, Ethiopia: an institution-based comparative cross-sectional study.

Although sexual and reproductive health for adolescents is a recognized fundamental human right and a critical component of health policy, it is poorly addressed and seldom researched in pastoral communities. The study aimed to determine the status of sexual and reproductive health knowledge, attitudes, and practice among pastoral school adolescents in Ethiopia. An Institution-based comparative study was conducted from Nov. 2020 to Jan. 2021. We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study at four randomly selected high schools. Seven hundred seventy-three adolescent students participated, with 384 from Gorodola and 389 from Wadara districts, Guji zone Ethiopia. The data was collected using 34 self-administered questions and analyzed using descriptive, t-test, and linear regression models. The study found that only 44.2% of all the participants had good knowledge, 46.1% had good attitudes and 35.4% had good utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services. Respondents from Wadara High School had significantly higher mean knowledge scores (49.3% vs. 44.2%, p < 0.01) than those of Gorodola High School. There was no significant difference in mean utilization scores between case and compare (45.08% vs. 37%, p > 0.01). Adolescents who were not communicated on SRH matters, previously utilized FHS, and visited Friendly Health facilities were associated with poor utilization of sexual and reproductive health services. Wadera High School adolescents have better Sexual and reproductive health knowledge and utilization than Gorodola high schools. Community public health care providers in Wadara District explain the outcome through their contributions. Within the context of inherent disadvantage in the school environment setting, there is a need to improve sexual and reproductive health education with a greater emphasis on school girls.

Changes in sexual activity in young women during pregnancy

Objective: To conduct changes in sexual activity during pregnancy and its related factors in pregnant women. Methods: The present descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2017 on pregnant women who referred to the women's clinic of Afzalipour Hospital in the southeast of Iran. Participants were included in the study through convenient sampling. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of two parts of personal social information of the couple and questions to measure the level of sexual activity and the attitude of the subjects during pregnancy compared to before pregnancy. Results: 201 Pregnant women were included. The average age of pregnant women was (27.3±6.1) years and their average gestational age was (24.7±11.8) years. More than 62% of women had decreased sexual activity. There was a significant relationship between the amount of changes in sexual activity and delivery time (P=0.013), abortion history (P=0.001) and premature birth history (P=0.002). Most pregnant women believed that sex during pregnancy caused damage to the fetus (67.7%). A decrease in the intensity of sexual desire was reported in 63% of pregnant women. More than 60% of the subjects did not consult with doctors and midwives with regards to sexual issues (63.5%). The most common reason for not consulting was not feeling the need (32%). Most women experienced back pain during (42.8%) and after (39.8%) intercourse. Conclusions: Changes in sex life during pregnancy are often caused by the lack of sexual knowledge and the increase in misconceptions among couples, which can affect the quality of relationships. The role of education is essential. Therefore, it is suggested that by including sexual counseling along with pregnancy care, wrong beliefs and information among women will be corrected.

Sexual Knowledge, Attitude and Behaviors of Medical Students: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Exposure to sexually explicit media influences the sexual knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of youth, so studying this among medical students is of utmost importance. Aim: To study sexual knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and sources of influence among medical students. Methodology: A descriptive, cross-sectional, analytical, web-based study was conducted to assess sexual knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and sources influencing sexuality in medical students via Google Forms. The form consisted of three parts: the first part was an information sheet and consent form, the second part included the participant’s sociodemographic data and the third part related to two study tools, the Sexual Knowledge and Attitude Questionnaire-II (SKAQ-II) and the sexual behavior and sources of influence scale. Result: A total of 300/950 (31.5%) medical students responded to the Google questionnaire. Their mean age was 20.43 ± 1.87 years (range: 18–26 years). The mean score for sexual knowledge and attitude was 24.35 ± 4.93 and 23.79 ± 4.87, respectively, which suggested that they had good sexual knowledge and liberal attitudes toward sexuality with female preponderance. As student’s academic year progresses, their sexual knowledge improves. There was a significant strong positive correlation between sexual attitude and knowledge with a Pearson correlation of r = 0.95, P = 0.004, which means the higher the knowledge, the better the attitude. Medical student’s engagement in sexual behaviors with self- and others was at age 18.45 years. The internet was the major source for getting information related to sexual behaviors for them, but they relied on doctors and friends for guidance. Conclusion: Medical students had adequate sexual knowledge, which was the reason for their liberal attitude toward sexuality. Their major source of sexual knowledge was the internet, although they confided in doctors for sexual doubts.

Sex Education Among Recent High School Graduates

Abstract Introduction Sexuality education varies considerably from abstinence-only to comprehensive sex education and can influence knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about sexuality. We examined the relations among types of sex education, sex-positive and purity culture attitudes, and sexual and reproductive health knowledge among a group of diverse high school graduates. Methods This study captured the sexuality knowledge and attitudes pursuant to the type of sex education received among a sample of 1005 high school graduates. Data were collected in the summer of 2023. We used ANOVAs, MANOVA, and linear regressions to examine relations among sex education type, sexual and reproductive health knowledge, sex-positive and purity culture beliefs, and participants’ self-reported readiness for their sexual lives. Results Participants who reported receiving abstinence-only sex education endorsed more purity culture beliefs and fewer sex-positive beliefs than those who experienced comprehensive sex education. Sexual and reproductive health knowledge was poor. Participants who experienced comprehensive sex education rated that education as better preparing them for a healthy sexual life compared to those who had abstinence-only education. Conclusions Findings reveal the relation of sex education type on attitudes toward sexuality and self-reported readiness for adults’ sexual lives. Policy Implications Policymakers, educators, and others who work with young people should champion sex-positive, comprehensive sex education. More work is needed to ensure sex education yields an informed public who can navigate their sexual lives effectively.

Views On Marriage and Love Following Sexual Harassment Experiences: A Moderated Mediation Analysis

Objectives: The current research aimed to explore the mechanism behind sexual harassment experiences and views on marriage and love (ML) among Chinese college students. Methods: 424 college students were recruited to complete the questionnaires about sexual harassment experiences (SH), subjective social status (SES), sexual knowledge (SK), and their views on ML. Results: The results of the moderated mediation model showed a negative association between SH and views on ML, explained through the mediating effect of SK. The negative moderating effect of SES between SH and SK was also found. Conclusion: The findings provide implications for supporting college students who have experienced SH in navigating their future romantic relationships, with the consideration of varied SES backgrounds.

Sexual and reproductive health: level of knowledge and source of information in adolescence.

To date, there is a lack of a structured national plan of sexual education in Italy, with large interregional differences and poor uniformity in the promotion and learning of sexual health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge on sexuality and reproductive function among adolescents before and after a sexual education program, considering gender differences in the results. A longitudinal and interventional study was conducted on high school students. Six sessions for each class were carried out by a multidisciplinary team. Anonymous questionnaires were administered to investigate basic knowledge of human sexuality and reproduction before and after intervention. Participants were high school students who completed the questionnaires. Outcomes included pre and posttest answers on the knowledge questionnaire in study population. We obtained data from 842 high school students (mean ± SD age, 16.11 ± 1.74years). The main informative sources on sexuality were social media in 37.9% of participants; family, school, and scientific material were the main source in 15.1%, 5.2%, and 4.4%, respectively. A total score of 12.6 ± 3.4 (range, 1-20) was obtained on the knowledge questionnaire; specifically, the score was higher in females than males (12.8 ± 3.4 vs 11.9 ± 3.4, P = .0001). In males and females, a statistically significant increase in level of knowledge was found after the multidisciplinary intervention (14.5 ± 3.6, P = .0001). The lack of sexual education programs in schools in Italy compels adolescents to refer to frequently unreliable sources, such as social media and peers, contributing to misinformation and adoption of risky sexual behaviors. This study is based on a large sample size and highlights the importance of sexual education programs. The main limitations are a greater representation of the female population and the inclusive nature of the school (ie, an artistic school), attracting students who identify with sexual minorities. Adolescents have limited knowledge about sexuality and reproduction, with a notable gender disparity; sexual education programs in schools, providing information from sexuality experts, led to a substantial increase in knowledge and a reduction in the gender gap.

Psychometric Properties and Gender Invariance of the Portuguese (European) Version of the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale.

The sexuality of older people was understood as non-existent or as something outside the prevailing norm. In this sense, analysing people's sexual knowledge and attitudes towards older people is a challenge for theory and practice. The aim of this study is to translate and validate the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale (ASKAS) for the Portuguese population. A sample of 994 Portuguese adults (70.9% women, n = 705) completed the ASKAS-PT along with a series of self-report measures. Confirmatory factor analysis and the psychometric properties of the Portuguese (European) version of ASKAS-PT were investigated, particularly reliability, temporal stability, and convergent and critical validity. This study also examined the gender measurement invariance of the ASKAS-PT. After confirmatory factor analysis, a two-factor model fit the Portuguese version best. Reliability and validity results also showed good results, and the ASKAS-PT appears to be a gender-invariant measure. Overall, the Portuguese version of the ASKAS showed good psychometric properties and appears to be a valid and reliable measure for assessing knowledge and attitudes about aging.

Navigating the future of sexuality education in the USA: applying technology mediation theory to AI-Facilitated Sexuality Education

ABSTRACT Following the emergence of AI technology such as ChatGPT, young adults in the USA with limited access to school-based sexuality education are likely to utilise AI to acquire sexual knowledge. Through the application of Technology Mediation Theory, which highlights the interactions between technology and humans, we identified various potential outcomes of AI-Facilitated sexuality education. These outcomes were examined in terms of the degree to which they aligned with and/or diverged from the US National Standards of Sex Education (NSES). Beneficial outcomes included accessibility, emotionally neutral responses and impartial information, and accuracy. Conversely, detrimental outcomes include limited ability to monitor developmental appropriateness, lack of human empathy, lack of interactive learning techniques, and concerns about the accuracy of current information. To optimise the benefits, and to mitigate the potential drawbacks of ChatGPT as a form of AI-Facilitated Sexuality Education, we offer recommendations of use to AI designers, sexuality educators, parents, and users.

A new materialist (re)configuring of sexuality, age and the discourse of ‘childhood innocence’

AbstractThis article explores the potential of feminist new materialisms for rethinking enduring debates that cohere around children, sexuality, age and ‘childhood innocence’. A new materialist ontology of sexuality and Karen Barad's concept of spacetimemattering are employed to conceptualise sexuality as an emergent becoming of relational material‐discursive forces. Within this paradigm, mobilisation of arguments about ‘sexual innocence and readiness’ become a matter of entanglement of contingent ‘things’, ‘spaces’ and ‘ideas’, that includes young people's own sexual knowledge. We consider how this reorientation shifts the contours, debates and possibilities of sexuality education beyond restrictive ‘age‐appropriate’ narratives.

Sources of Sexual Knowledge and Information, and Sexual Attitudes of Men: A Narrative Synthesis of the Literature

Sources of Sexual Knowledge and Information, and Sexual Attitudes of Men: A Narrative Synthesis of the Literature

Risky Sexual Behaviours and Knowledge of Contraceptives among Adolescent Girls in Kirinyaga County, Kenya

Risky Sexual Behaviours and Knowledge of Contraceptives among Adolescent Girls in Kirinyaga County, Kenya

Study on Sex Determination and Variation in Gender Expression of Individual Trees in a Population of Cedrusdeodara (Roxb.) G. Don. From Dense Temperate Forests of Northern India

Conifers are reported to exhibit predominantly monoecious behaviour however, numerous species and some genera show uncertainties regarding their gender expression. The factors influencing the sexual differentiation of strobili in monoecious or dioecious conifers remain poorly understood. To investigate this unpredictable phenomenon in conifers, we selected three populations representing pure stands of Cedrusdeodara in dense temperate forests of Northern India, specifically one in Uttarakhand and two in Himachal Pradesh. Each site was surveyed, and total 900 trees were marked as male, female, monoecious and neutral trees based on their reproductive behaviour and sexual representation. Selection criteria were based on the reproductive age of Cedrusdeodara, as it attains maturity when it reaches a height of 19 to 20 meters. Our findings revealed that Cedrusdeodara exhibits subdioecious behaviour, characterized by the occurrence of four basic sex forms such as male trees, female trees, monoecious trees, and neutral trees. Yearly observations from 2014 to 2016 unveiled that Cedrusdeodara does not exhibit consistent reproductive behaviour. Instead, the species displays a fascinating pattern of alternation between dioecy and monoecy. Additionally, it was also found that individual trees demonstrated change in their expression of sex during each reproductive cycle. These findings underscore the complexity of sex determination and reproductive plasticity in Cedrusdeodara. The study has revealed that the monoecious behaviour was more dominant than the dioecious behaviour, and the individual tree changes its sexual representation depending upon the rate of seed production the previous year. This research pave the way for future investigations into the factors influencing sex expression and reproductive behaviour in conifers and will contribute to our broader knowledge of plant sexuality and plant evolution.