Comprehensive sexuality education in Hong Kong: study protocol for process and outcome evaluation

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Adolescent Health
• Sexuality Education

Background:

• Hong Kong's current sex education is inadequate, prompting public health concerns.
• There is a critical need for comprehensive, school-based sexuality education programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a comprehensive, school-based sexuality education program in Hong Kong.
• To enhance sexual health knowledge, communication skills, and contraceptive intentions among students.
• To improve educators' and parents' confidence and knowledge in discussing sexual health.

Main Methods:

• A prospective longitudinal study conducted in six Hong Kong secondary schools over two academic years.
• An ecological approach involving informational workshops for students, school staff, and parents.
• Evaluation through pre- and post-tests to measure changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.

Main Results:

• Key student outcomes include improved sexual health knowledge, values awareness, communication efficacy, and contraceptive intention.
• School employees and parents showed increased self-efficacy in discussing sexual health and greater knowledge of community resources.
• The study provides a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of sexuality education interventions.

Conclusions:

• A culturally relevant, comprehensive sexuality education program was developed and tested.
• The program empowers adolescents and adults, fostering a supportive sexual health environment.
• Widespread adoption could reduce public health burdens associated with unintended pregnancies, STIs, and sexual abuse.