Professional Training of Sexologists in Latin America and the Caribbean

Since 1974, the World Health Organization has recommended the training of health and education professionals in sexology and sexual health. A wide range of studies and programs related to sexuality have been developed globally since the late 19th century, primarily in Europe. This movement also emerged in Latin America in the early 20th century and gradually strengthened in its second half.

This is a cross-sectional study to explore and describe main characteristics of professional sexology training programs offered in Latin America and the Caribbean region. It is part of a Global Project of the Professional Education Committee in Sexology of the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS). Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed by email to sexologists via the WAS Media Committee and the Latin American Federation of Societies of Sexology and Sexual Education.

A total of 136 responses were received, of which 75 valid responses from professional sexologist training programs were included for analysis. These came from 11 continental countries and one Caribbean territory. The main orientations of these programs included educational, basic, clinical, and/or social sexology. The academic levels of the programs were, in descending order: Certificate/Diploma, Master's degree, Continuing Education, Undergraduate Courses, Short Courses, and Doctoral level.

There is considerable diversity in the characteristics of professional training programs in sexology. As the first regional study of its kind, this research offers a foundation for establishing consensus on educational levels and academic discipline orientations. It highlights the need for Latin American countries to create professional positions for sexologists within public health and education institutions.