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Sexual knowledge among Norwegian adolescents
1National Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.
Journal of Adolescence
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Norwegian adolescents have significant gaps in sexual knowledge, particularly regarding reproductive health and sexually transmitted diseases. Educational efforts and improved peer communication are recommended to address these deficiencies.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Sexual Education
- Public Health
Background:
- Adolescent sexual health knowledge is crucial for informed decision-making.
- Previous research indicates varying levels of sexual knowledge among young people.
- Understanding knowledge gaps is essential for targeted health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the extent of sexual knowledge among Norwegian adolescents aged 17-19.
- To identify factors associated with varying levels of sexual knowledge.
- To evaluate the relationship between sexual knowledge and contraception use.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide postal survey was conducted with 3000 Norwegian adolescents (17-19 years).
- Response rate was 62.8%.
- Data collected on 16 sexual knowledge items, demographics, and behaviors.
Main Results:
- Significant knowledge gaps were identified in sexual physiology, anatomy, STDs, and contraception.
- Girls and older adolescents demonstrated higher sexual knowledge levels.
- Knowledge correlated positively with educational aspirations, peer discussions about sex, and sexual experience.
Conclusions:
- There is a clear need for enhanced sexual education programs for Norwegian adolescents.
- Interventions should focus on improving the quality and activation of peer communication regarding sexual health.
- Current sexual knowledge levels do not directly predict contraception use when other factors are controlled.