International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · 5 authors, 6 centres
This summary was generated by AI from a single paper. It has not been reviewed by a clinician and is not clinical advice. Verify against the source before acting on it.
This systematic review analyzed 21 randomized controlled trials to identify key components of effective adolescent sexuality education interventions. The main findings include the use of behavior change theories, participatory methods, mixed-sex groups, facilitator training, and at least ten hours of weekly intervention, but the review is limited by the lack of studies from Latin America and Asia.
Sexuality education interventions (SEI) are crucial for adolescent health, but their components vary widely. This systematic review aimed to identify shared components of successful SEI for adolescents (A-SEI) through a review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: The review followed PRISMA guidelines, searching CINAHL, PsycInfo, PubMed, and Web of Science for RCTs published from 2011 onwards. Inclusion criteria required universal, preventive, in-person SEI for adolescents aged 11-19 with at least one positive outcome. Quality was assessed using the Jadad scale, resulting in 21 studies (18 interventions) included. Key Results: The analysis revealed that most successful interventions used a comprehensive approach (72.22%), incorporating behavior change theories such as the theory of planned behavior (61.1%) and social cognitive theory (39%). Participatory methodology was prevalent (94.4%), and interventions targeted mixed-sex groups (94.4%). Facilitator training was present in 94.4% of interventions. Dose varied, but 50% of interventions had 10-19 hours of exposure. Outcomes included improved knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and preventive sexual behaviors. Limitations: The review lacked studies from Latin America and Asia, which may restrict generalizability. Additionally, no gender-related outcomes were reported, limiting understanding of gender impacts. Implications: The findings suggest that effective A-SEIs should include behavior change theoretical models, participatory methods, mixed-sex groups, facilitator training, and at least ten hours of weekly intervention.
