‘We expected more about sex in the sex week’ - A qualitative study about students’ experiences with a sexual health education programme, from a health-promotion perspective

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore adolescents’ experiences with participation in a sexual health education programme named «Week 6», from a health-promotion perspective.

Methods Six focus group interviews were conducted with adolescents aged 15–16 in Norway. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data material.

Results The results can be summed up by the main theme: “We like «Week 6» but … we expected more about sex in the sex week”. The main theme consisted of two main analysis-derived themes: “The students want a topical sexual health education, with realistic and relevant learning subjects and exercises”, and “The students want to contribute to the content and implementation, in order to improve the learning outcomes of «Week 6»”. Further, four categories were identified: organization and content, positive experiences, the potential for improvement, and learning outcome. «Week 6» is desirable, but students expect to learn more. Teaching should have a positive approach, and adolescents do not want their educators to get embarrassed.

Conclusion Although the teaching methods with active participation are enjoyable, it is necessary with more time for discussions and questions. Student participation in planning and implementation of the programme seems crucial for promoting salutogenic teaching processes.